Manchester United has gotten off to a rocky 1-1-2 start this season and is now dealing with internal turmoil. JJ Gabriel, Manchester United's Under-18 player of the year, has formally requested to leave the club, according to BBC's Simon Stone.
The decision came as a shock to both soccer fans and Manchester United. Gabriel, 15, made his senior debut in last month's preseason game against Atletico Madrid, and he was expected to play Wednesday against Brighton in the Carabao Cup. Just last week Gabriel scored a hat-trick in his Uefa Youth League debut, and he's scored twice over two games for United's Under-21 team in Premier League 2.
Here's what we know about Gabriel and what could be his looming exit from United.
Why did JJ Gabriel ask to leave Manchester United?
The exact reasons are unclear,
but there was reportedly a "breakdown in relationship" between Gabriel's family and the club, so that certainly could've played a role. United isn't giving up on its young superstar yet, however. The club reportedly believes the Gabriel situation is "rectifiable" because he's under contract for the remainder of the season. Gabriel can't sign a professional contract until he's 17, but he can sign a scholarship agreement when he turns 16 in October.
Where could JJ Gabriel land if he leaves Manchester United?
Barcelona has been the most rumored destination, though we've seen nothing official linking him there yet.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Why did JJ Gabriel ask to leave Manchester United?
