JJ Gabriel sends one-world message after Michael Carrick's Man Utd debut snub

JJ Gabriel sent a simple message of "patience" as the wait to debut for Manchester United goes on. The 15-year-old appeared in line to make his senior bow during their pre-season friendly against Rosenborg on Friday.

Gabriel, however, was an unused substitute in Norway, one of two outfield players who did not feature during the 5-0 win. United's 18-year-old midfielder Jim Thwaites joined him in watching on for the entirety, as did backup goalkeeper Tom Heaton.

Three players have missed out in both matches so far this summer. Chido Obi, Dermot Mee and Thwaites were the odd ones out against Wrexham.

Gabriel only came into the squad as a replacement for Ethan Wheatley, and it was Obi who benefited from the change. Michael Carrick also gave game time to Mee instead of Heaton, having started the former England international in Finland.

The only two players who have made a squad but not featured are Gabriel and Thwaites. However, the latter has previously played for United's first team, coming on as a substitute during a post-season friendly against Hong Kong last year.

But the wait for Gabriel to make his bow continues. The teenager acknowledged as much on social media after the match.

Posting a photo of United's new away kit laid out in the dressing room, with his surname on the back of the shirt, Gabriel added the caption: "Patience". The previous post shared on his Instagram story showed Ayden Heaven and Patrick Dorgu flanking him during a walk around Trondheim.

Another opportunity for Gabriel to feature could come against Atletico Madrid next weekend. However, it remains to be seen whether he makes the squad again, especially if Wheatley returns.

Benjamin Sesko's eventual recovery from a shin injury will seemingly further limit his chances. Gabriel, however, appears to be in no rush.

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After missing out on the squad against Wrexham, he posted on Instagram: "The longer you wait for something, the more you appreciate it when you get it because anything worth having is worth waiting for."

United have further friendlies in August against Leeds United, Milan and Paris Saint-Germain. However, the next best opportunity to make his debut could come in the League Cup third round.

There will not be a chance to play in the EFL Trophy or National League Cup this season, though. United decided not to enter either, partly because they are back in the UEFA Youth League.

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