Kai Rooney, 'Kid Messi' Fast-Tracked for U19 Tournament

Kai Rooney, 15-year-old son of Wayne Rooney, has been promoted three age groups to join Manchester United's Under-19 squad for the prestigious Mladen Ramljak Tournament in Croatia. His selection comes after a standout showing at the Super Cup NI in Northern Ireland, where he contributed a goal and an assist as United's Under-16s made the final. Among the other young talents fast-tracked is 14-year-old JJ Gabriel, nicknamed 'Kid Messi.' The tournament features elite youth teams including Juventus, Dinamo Zagreb, and Paris Saint-Germain, and has previously highlighted future stars like Luka Modric. Manchester United's academy has promoted multiple players from their Under-15 and Under-16 squads, signaling high confidence in their potential. Both Wayne and Coleen Rooney have been visibly supportive throughout Kai's ascent in the youth ranks.