“I Left School, Made Man City History, and Now I’m Taking on My Biggest Challenge Yet!”
Kaden Braithwaite recently left school and made Manchester City history by debuting for the first team at just 16. In the English League Cup third-round match against Watford, Braithwaite, wearing #61, took the field alongside fellow academy player Nico O’Reilly, with established stars like Kyle Walker and John Stones offering guidance.
He had only recently begun training with City full-time and had no previous experience with the senior team until the day before the game, where he impressed coach Pep Guardiola and City’s Director of Football Txiki Begiristain. His brief senior team debut was historic, marking him as the club’s youngest debutant in over four decades and the third youngest in history.
Reflecting on his debut, Braithwaite expressed amazement and gratitude, noting how supportive his teammates were in easing his nerves. Guardiola reassured him before the match, emphasizing hard work over perfection. His family was in attendance for the special moment, which was especially meaningful given that his father had been in a coma a year prior.
City’s youth coach Ben Wilkinson commended Braithwaite’s progress and potential, highlighting his balance and vision on the field, along with his left-footed versatility. While Braithwaite’s early senior debut is impressive, Wilkinson emphasized the importance of patience and development. Braithwaite has since continued his growth, captaining the under-18s and playing regularly in the UEFA Youth League for the under-19s.
Braithwaite himself is eager to build on this experience, aiming for more senior appearances while staying grounded and focused on his training. His coaches are confident he’ll stay humble and work diligently as he continues to mature and develop in the years ahead.
