JJ Gabriel: No reconciliation in sight for rift with Manchester United

JJ Gabriel has been included in Manchester United's official team photo for the current season, yet there is no indication of a reconciliation. The teenage forward, who turns 16 on Tuesday, remains determined to leave Old Trafford.

The photos were captured on September 8, just two days before Gabriel played his final game for the club and formally declared his intent to depart. He is currently based in Spain, training under the guidance of coach Jack Hunter. It is expected that a final decision on his future will be reached in the coming weeks.

The tension escalated after Gabriel was excluded from the squad for the Champions League match against Sabah FK. His camp had hoped for a debut, which would have made him the youngest player in the club's history. Following his omission and subsequent departure from the country, the relationship with the club has remained fractured.

European giants including Real Madrid and Barcelona are reportedly monitoring the situation. Gabriel’s possession of an EU passport could facilitate a move to the continent. United maintain that they have provided the player with significant care and support, and they have warned that they would pursue legal action if any evidence of illegal inducement by other clubs or agents surfaces.