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Manchester United youngster JJ Gabriel has made a huge statement on the European stage in spectacular style. The gifted 15-year-old striker netted an outstanding hat-trick on his UEFA Youth League debut against Sabah, becoming the youngest player in the club’s history to manage that feat. His superb display will certainly have drawn the attention of head coach Michael Carrick.

Making history in Europe

Gabriel was the standout performer for Manchester United Under-19s as they cruised to a commanding 5-0 win over Sabah on Thursday. Amir Ibragimov and Jacob Watson had already put the side in front early on, but it was Gabriel who truly lit up Leigh Sports Village.

The forward got his first goal right on the cusp of half-time, then struck twice more late in the game in the 85th and 87th minutes to claim the match ball. At only 15 years and 339 days old, Gabriel became the youngest player ever to score three goals for Manchester United in this competition, impressing those in attendance, including director of football Jason Wilcox.

Knocking on the first-team door

Gabriel has long been regarded as a future star and is continuing to add to exceptional numbers at youth level. As per the Manchester Evening News, the attacker scored 28 goals in 35 appearances for the Under-18s last season.

After stepping up to the Under-21s this term, Gabriel made an immediate impact with two goals and two assists in his opening two matches. He also made his first appearance for the senior side as a substitute in a friendly against Atletico Madrid last month.

Having already met the Premier League age requirement before the current season started, Gabriel is now eligible to make his senior league debut for Manchester United.

Carrick keeping a close eye

Michael Carrick has been watching the teenager closely, regularly bringing Gabriel into first-team training and naming him in the squad for a number of pre-season matches during the summer. Although supporters are keen to see the youngster make his competitive senior debut, the head coach has stressed the need for caution in handling his progress. Speaking about Gabriel’s rapid rise, Carrick said: “JJ is a big talent, it's pretty obvious to know that and he's had a really good season for the Under-18s. We obviously think an awful lot of him, but patience is important in managing everything that comes with that and working with him in development as we do with all the different younger players and picking the right moment to step up.”

What comes next for Gabriel

Manchester United clearly have a major talent on their hands, and the club are expected to manage his development carefully in the weeks ahead. If Carrick chooses to give Gabriel a senior outing before he turns 16 next month, the forward would become the youngest-ever first-team player in the club’s history. For the moment, Gabriel will aim to keep up his remarkable goalscoring run in academy football and in Europe.