Manchester United continue their pre-season preparations today with a friendly against Norwegian side Rosenborg in Trondheim, as manager Michael Carrick has included 15-year-old academy star JJ Gabriel in the travelling squad. The highly-rated teenager is expected to feature at some point during the match, marking another significant step in his rapid development at the club.
Gabriel, who has been tipped for a bright future at Old Trafford, has impressed during training sessions and youth matches, earning him a place in the senior squad for this pre-season fixture. His inclusion follows positive reports from club coaches and teammates, with some senior players already praising his abilities and potential.
The match against Rosenborg represents United's second friendly of the summer, following their opening pre-season outing. Carrick is expected to field a mix of experienced first-team players and promising youngsters, giving fans a glimpse of the squad's depth ahead of the 2026/27 Premier League campaign.
United's squad for the Norway trip includes several key figures from last season, alongside emerging talents like Gabriel. The club's pre-season schedule is designed to build fitness, test tactical systems, and integrate younger players into the senior setup. Carrick has emphasised the importance of these matches for squad cohesion and preparation.
Rosenborg, one of Norway's most successful clubs, will provide a competitive test for United. The hosts are in the middle of their domestic season and will be match-fit, offering a sterner examination than some pre-season opponents. United's coaching staff will be keen to assess how the team copes with a physically demanding encounter.
Gabriel's call-up has generated considerable interest among United supporters, who are eager to see the teenager in action. The club has a strong tradition of promoting youth talent, and Gabriel is viewed as one of the most exciting prospects to emerge from the academy in recent years. His versatility and technical ability have drawn comparisons to some of United's past academy graduates.
Carrick, who took over as manager last season, has continued the club's focus on developing homegrown players. The inclusion of Gabriel in the pre-season squad signals that the pathway from academy to first team remains open under Carrick's leadership. Several other academy graduates are also part of the travelling party, reflecting the manager's commitment to youth.
The friendly against Rosenborg kicks off at 17:00 local time in Trondheim. United will then return to England to continue their pre-season programme, with further friendlies scheduled before the start of the Premier League season. The match will be broadcast live on the club's official channels, allowing fans worldwide to watch the action.
For Rosenborg, the fixture provides an opportunity to test themselves against top-level opposition and showcase their own talents. The Norwegian club has a proud European history and will be motivated to perform well in front of their home supporters. United will need to be at their best to secure a positive result.
As pre-season progresses, Carrick will be looking to finalise his starting lineup and tactical approach for the upcoming campaign. The matches against Rosenborg and other opponents will be crucial in determining which players are ready for first-team action and which may need more time to develop. Gabriel's potential involvement today could be a sign of things to come for the young star.
