Gabriel to Leave United: Squad Photo Inclusion Misleading, Sky Sports Reports

TL;DR JJ Gabriel is still expected to leave Manchester United despite being included in the club's official 2026/27 squad photo.

Key Points - Gabriel remains a walking casualty despite the visual inclusion in team imagery. - The squad photo does not reflect a change in his transfer status. - Sky Sports reports the departure is still the primary expectation.

What We Know According to Sky Sports Football, the inclusion of JJ Gabriel in the Manchester United squad photo for the upcoming 2026/27 season has caused confusion regarding his future. However, the outlet clarifies that this appearance is not indicative of him staying at the club. The reporting states that Gabriel is still expected to leave Manchester United, suggesting the photo inclusion was likely for administrative or promotional reasons rather than a signal of retention.

Why It Matters This clarification prevents fan speculation about a potential U-turn in Gabriel's transfer status. It confirms that the club is not signaling an intent to retain the player, allowing supporters and rivals to focus on confirmed exit routes rather than misleading visual marketing. It stabilizes the narrative around his departure timeline.

What Happens Next Speculation suggests Gabriel will complete a transfer before the window closes, but no specific destination or deadline has been confirmed. The next step will likely be the announcement of a formal deal or loan move, as the squad photo does not alter the underlying transfer expectations.