JJ Gabriel takes swipe at club as he breaks silence on Man United exit

The 16-year-old forward has broken silence after two months away, confirming his preference for Real Madrid over Barcelona while his agent negotiates contract terms.

JJ Gabriel has spoken publicly for the first time since requesting to leave Manchester United two months ago. The 16-year-old has been training in Spain for six weeks, first in Castelldefels and then in Madrid, while his agent Ali Barat negotiates the terms of a move to Real Madrid.

Real Madrid have reportedly reached a verbal agreement in principle to sign Gabriel, though United sources say they have not received direct contact and Gabriel's family has kept the club in the dark. Gabriel is set to join Real Madrid's Castilla reserve team, which competes in Spain's semi-professional third tier.

When questioned by Spanish newspaper Marca about why Madrid is better than Barcelona, Gabriel replied: "Obviously, Madrid." His agent is already looking for accommodation in the Spanish capital for Gabriel and his family. Ryan Giggs has questioned the move, telling Rio Ferdinand's YouTube channel that Gabriel was on the right track at United and should have patience with his development.