The 16-year-old became the third youngest player in City’s history when he started last week’s Carabao Cup victory over Watford at the Etihad Stadium.
Braithwaite, a left-sided defender, played 76 minutes as a much-changed City ran out 2-1 winners against the Championship side.
It was a sudden rise for the youngster, who is vice-captain for Oliver Reiss’ U18s side this season, having not previously featured in a matchday squad at senior level.
A few days after the game, he was back with his peers in the City Football Academy and reflecting on his experience.
Asked who has had the most impact on his career and been a role model for him, Braithwaite didn’t hesitate.
“My dad,” he said.
“This time last year he was in a coma so just to see him striving now and he came to the game against Watford so it was so good to see him smile.
“He is my role model.
“He’s been with me through my whole journey and he was in a bad state this time last year.
“To see him working hard every day trying to get back to his normal life is so inspiring and it makes me play better and put more effort in to my games.
“To see how much support I have from my family makes me proud. Even my brother’s achievements, my parent’s achievements, they’re good to see and help drive us all on.”
Bolton-born Braithwaite has progressed all the way through City’s ranks and still vividly remembers the first moment he knew City were interested.
“I was five or six and playing for Bolton at the time but at that age you could play for more than one team,” he stated.
“It was unbelievable, my dad was just blown away I think there wasn’t a doubt in his mind on whether I should swap and play for City. It was a great time for my family.”
While clearly an incredibly talented defender – composed on the ball and physical off it – Braithwaite will have had to show personality and character on and off the pitch to progress all the way to Pep Guardiola’s side.
He believes it’s as simple as remaining humble and well-mannered to those around him, especially while at the CFA.
“I try to always be nice to everyone. To all the kitchen staff, cleaners, I always say hi to them, ask them how their day has been,” he said.
“And I think that’s something you can’t really teach, you either do it or you don’t. It’s just respect, you respect everyone and treat everyone how you would like to be treated.”
Black History Month
October is Black History Month in the UK.
Across the month we will be celebrating, honouring and remembering the contributions of Black people throughout Manchester City’s history.
Keep your eyes peeled on mancity.com and our official app for features, videos and interviews over the coming weeks.
Click here to see our best Black History Month content from recent years.
