MU unveils a new 15-year-old prodigy, a rival to JJ Gabriel emerges

JJ Gabriel is gaining recognition as a standout prodigy at the MU academy, yet he isn’t the sole 15-year-old star excelling among the youth teams.

Just one week after a 7-0 victory over Liverpool highlighted JJ Gabriel’s brilliant performance, MU’s U18 team continued their success by beating Newcastle 3-0. However, the spotlight did not belong to JJ Gabriel this time, but to another 15-year-old star, Douka Nkoto.

Coming on in the second half, Douka Nkoto made an impact in all three of MU’s wins. He directly scored two goals and assisted Noah Ajayi for the remaining goal. Beyond this match, Nkoto has impressed repeatedly since the season began, consistently troubling opposing defenses. Therefore, it is possible that Nkoto will soon be ranked alongside “the highly anticipated group” like Gabriel, players who could have a profound influence on the future of Old Trafford.

The Cameroonian player, also born in 2010, is among the youngest in the squad and has attracted attention with impressive statistics in the youth teams. Nkoto stands 1.70 meters tall and can effectively play either as a winger or central midfielder.

In summer 2025, Nkoto was one of three 14-year-old players honored to attend the pre-season camp for talents aged 18 to 21 at Carrington in Germany, sponsored by Adidas. The other two players were JJ Gabriel and Jayce Carrick (son of Michael Carrick).

This shows that MU’s management holds Nkoto in high regard and considers him a key talent for investment. Nkoto serves as a strategic substitute in the U18 team. With his rapid development, he is predicted to make even greater impacts soon.

Of course, the journey for Nkoto to reach the level of JJ Gabriel, who is regarded as a “future world-class” player, remains long and challenging. But one thing is certain: Nkoto possesses exceptional qualities. A talent to watch in the remainder of the season.

The competition Nkoto creates also benefits JJ Gabriel’s growth, who has been highly praised recently. It helps the “little Messi” stay focused, something that U18 coach Darren Fletcher and his staff very much appreciate.

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