Man Utd promote 14-year-old prodigy dubbed ‘Kid Messi’ to Under-18s after coaches blown away by start to season

The youngster celebrated his 14th birthday at the weekend and has already been moved up an age group, the Daily Mail reports. He had been shining with the U16s but was given his first chance to experience warming up with the higher age group ahead of a game against Manchester City U18s in April this year.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Gabriel won the Most Valuable Player at a youth tournament in Hong Kong this season amid his impressive displays since returning after the summer. The Red Devils are said to be in no hurry to put him in U18s matches, but coaches have been impressed by how he looks in training.

  DID YOU KNOW?

  Gabriel has been given the nickname ‘Kid Messi’ because of his skill and is regarded as one of the most exciting young players in the Premier League team’s youth academy.

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  WHAT NEXT FOR UNITED?

  While Gabriel continues his rise through the United academy, the senior team are gearing up for their Premier League match against Brentford on October 19.