The young England player shone at EDS and during the Blues’ FA Youth Cup run last season and, having already been at the Club since the age of nine, he sees his long-term future at the Etihad.
The 18-year-old’s new deal is a four-year extension on the remaining year he already had left.
“The talks have continued over the summer and this was the perfect time for me to sign the new contract,” said Barker.
I’m very happy at City and now I intend to push on and keep moving forwards. Pre-season has gone really well and it was really good to go away with the first-team
...Brandon Barker..
“It was good to challenge for minutes on the pitch, even though it’s not that easy with a team full of world class players so this season I want to really put my name out there and show everyone what I’m capable of.
“The manager has told all the young players that if we impress him, we will be given an opportunity. I need to impress in training and, just like the other lads coming through at the Club, I need to take the chance when it comes along. That’s exactly what I intend to do.”
Barker admits he may need to gain experience out on loan at some point if City decides league football will develop his game, but his ultimate aim will always be to break into City’s first-team at some point.
“If I do spend time out on loan, I’ll do my best to help that club while bringing my own game on,” he said. “If that happens, I’ll grow as a player and then I can use that to benefit my future at City – the end goal will always be geared to progressing here.
“I’ve been here 10 years in October so all I’ve ever wanted is to do well for City and this contract gives me the time to realise all my hopes. I’m just taking things step by step and will do whatever Patrick Vieira thinks is best. If he thinks that’s with the EDS or whatever, I’ll be happy because I have a great relationship with him.
“There are a lot of talented young players coming through at this club and I think we all left an impression of some kind on the manager this summer and I think there are a number of really exciting players to keep an eye out for this season and in the coming years.”
Barker also admits he’s looking forward to linking up with new team-mate Patrick Roberts – a fellow winger he knows well from England.
“I know Pat from international duty and we get along well,” he said. “He’s a very talented player and that’s why he came to City. That’s also why I signed such a long deal – because I believe in myself and my ability.
“Pat’s a great signing for us and the good thing is we can both play on either flank – he prefers the right and I like the left but we can both swap and be comfortable so it will be good for the team if we both play together and I’m looking forward to when we do.”
