Gabriel wants out at 15 as Baleba nears United debut ahead of Fulham clash

Manchester United’s turbulent start to the 2026/27 Premier League season deepened this week as 15-year-old academy star JJ Gabriel informed the club he wants to cancel his registration, just days before Sunday’s home fixture against Fulham.

Gabriel, who joined United aged 11 and was named Premier League Under-18 Player of the Year last season, has left supporters stunned with the request. United are hopeful of persuading him to stay and, according to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, the club’s approach will not involve a financial offer. Instead, officials plan to hold direct conversations with Gabriel, his family, and his representatives. The club also retain the right to challenge or reject his cancellation request outright.

The news compounds a difficult opening to the season for manager Michael Carrick, whose side have won just one of their first four Premier League games and were eliminated from the Carabao Cup by Brighton on Wednesday.

Amid the turbulence, there is at least one encouraging development on the injury front. Carlos Baleba has returned to training and could be available to feature against Fulham, according to The Athletic. The 22-year-old Cameroonian midfielder has been sidelined since his £65m summer move from Brighton after sustaining an ankle injury during pre-season. His return has been long-anticipated, with United viewing him as a central figure in their midfield for the foreseeable future.

However, supporters may need to be patient. Club figures are reportedly weighing up whether to keep Baleba at Carrington during the upcoming international break rather than releasing him for Cameroon duty, suggesting a competitive debut could still be some weeks away.