Not many industries in the world would see a 15-year-old bossing them around, but that’s exactly the situation Manchester United find themselves in.
Academy star JJ Gabriel has shocked many supporters and club members after deleting all social media posts and claiming he wanted to leave the Red Devils.
Such a decision was undoubtedly driven by the youngster’s father, whose demands now put his long-term future at Old Trafford in huge jeopardy.
As such, his recent antics could hamper his progress in Manchester and lead to his departure, which could give another young talent the chance to star under Michael Carrick.
Why Shay Lacey could be Manchester United’s next academy star
In recent years, Manchester United’s academy has become famous for creating an endless conveyor belt of talent, seeing many youngsters make the leap from youth teams to the senior team.
Winger Shay Lacey is likely to be the next academy star to make his mark on the first team, and Carrick already appears to be a big fan of the Northern Ireland international.
The 19-year-old had made six senior appearances before Wednesday night, with the manager deciding to start the teenager against Brighton in the Carabao Cup.
It’s safe to say the youngster made the most of the opportunity handed to him, scoring after beating his own defender before firing past Jason Steele at the near post.
It was his first effort for the Red Devils, and he also put up some impressive underlying numbers, including winning two fouls and completing two carries.
Opponents often couldn’t stand the striker’s direct and quick nature in the forward area, and Carrick’s side looked far less threatening after he retreated.
|
Shay Lacey – Statistics vs. Brighton |
|
|---|---|
|
Statistics |
consistent |
|
Minutes played |
66 |
|
touch |
39 |
|
through accuracy |
84% |
|
Number of goals scored |
1 |
|
Dribbling completed |
2 |
|
tackle making |
3 |
|
duel won |
60% |
|
Foul wins |
2 |
There is no doubt that he is still young and the club must meet his expectations, but there is no reason why the teenager cannot play a vital role in the club’s hopes of future success.
How Manchester United signed their dream Gabriel replacement
Despite Lacey’s impressive display against Brighton last night, many United fans still believe Gabriel remains the brightest prospect from the club’s academy.
However, his antics in recent weeks may have burned bridges in Manchester, which could significantly impact his chances of gaining trust in the first team.
The club should let the teenager leave Old Trafford in the near future, with the player and his representatives clearly seeing his own future away from the Red Devils.
Such a decision may anger some fans, but they should not worry as the club has completed a deal to sign young winger Isaac Kounde from Liverpool.
Fabrizio Romano confirmed last week that the Red Devils had reached an agreement with their Premier League rivals to secure the 16-year-old attacker’s services.
Like Lacey and Gabriel, he will need time if he is to reach his full potential in Manchester, but there’s no reason why he can’t be a long-term success in the coming years.
Although he may be an unknown figure to many Manchester supporters, the teenager has already earned a reputation as a huge prospect.
The teenager made six appearances for Liverpool’s U18s last season and although he failed to score, he did contribute a few assists.
Kounde is capable of operating on either side of the final third and is known for his direct ability with the ball and relentless pace.
It’s the kind of skill set that could see him keep Old Trafford supporters out of their seats for years to come, which could also make Red Devils fans forget about the ongoing Gabriel saga.
Journalist Alex Young also heaped praise on the soon-to-be Manchester United striker, claiming he “One of the brightest young talents at Liverpool Academy”.
Snatching him away from their bitter rivals will only add to the deal for United fans, who may have one more talented teenager to follow in their bid for Premier League glory.
His move to Manchester could see him compete with Lacey for a place in Carrick’s squad, while a move to the club could soften the blow of a potential move for the 15-year-old.