Ferdinand urges Manchester United to stand firm over Gabriel

Rio Ferdinand has urged Manchester United to remain firm in its handling of 15-year-old academy forward JJ Gabriel, while acknowledging he does not know the full reasons behind reports that the teenager wants to leave. Whether Gabriel will depart, and where he might go, remains unresolved. Ferdinand, speaking on his YouTube channel, praised Gabriel’s ability and said he believed the youngster had the potential to reach the top of the sport. He also said United should not appear to be pressured, whatever the outcome, and should remain strong in its approach. The remarks are attributed to Ferdinand, but the three reports carrying them reproduce the same statements rather than providing separate accounts of the conversation. Reports say Gabriel’s representatives informed United earlier in September that he wanted to leave. They do not include a direct statement from Gabriel or his representatives explaining the reported request. Ferdinand said he did not know the full facts and suggested the teenager’s family could have reasons for considering a move.