Rooney Says Gabriel’s Potential United Exit Was Expected

Wayne Rooney said JJ Gabriel’s possible departure from Manchester United was not unexpected among people familiar with the teenager’s situation, adding that he had heard for years of a desire to play in Spain. Rooney also said United had made extensive efforts to keep the academy player, while stressing that he might be wrong about Gabriel’s intentions. Gabriel, who is 15, has reportedly asked to leave the club. His future remains unresolved: reports have described interest from Barcelona and talks involving the Spanish club, but the available accounts do not establish that Gabriel has agreed to join it or any other team. Rooney, whose son Kai plays in United’s academy, said on a podcast that he had watched Gabriel grow up and believed those close to the situation had anticipated the request. Rooney described Gabriel as a special talent and said United had treated him differently from other academy players in an effort to retain him. He also said it was disappointing to think the club could lose him, but left open the possibility that Gabriel might stay.