Alious“He Knows What It Takes!” – Ex-Man City Prospect Returns to Brighton in Key Role to Mentor Next Generation
Brighton & Hove Albion have confirmed the return of a familiar face, as former Manchester City youth product and ex-Albion academy graduate Ben Barclay has signed a one-year deal to rejoin the club — this time in a dual role with the under-21 squad for the 2025/26 season.
Barclay, now 28, originally joined Brighton from Manchester City in 2013 and progressed through the club’s academy ranks. He made several loan appearances, including a stint at Notts County, before moving on permanently to Accrington Stanley in 2019. The versatile defender later played for Stockport County, Yeovil Town, and most recently, Carlisle United, where he ended his contract earlier this summer.
Now back at the club where he spent his formative years, Barclay will blend on-field duties with mentorship responsibilities as part of Brighton’s progressive development model. His wealth of experience in the English Football League is expected to be a major asset to the under-21 setup.
Men’s under-21 head coach Shannon Ruth expressed his excitement about the appointment, emphasizing Barclay’s value as both a role model and an on-pitch guide. “He knows exactly what it takes to progress from academy football to the senior game,” Ruth said. “He’ll be a great example for our young pros and bring important experience to both training and matchdays.”
Brighton have become known for their innovative use of overage players in the under-21 and previously under-23 squads, a model that began with Andrew Crofts and continued with Gary Dicker. Barclay now steps into that legacy, bringing full-circle his development story at the club.
His return is not just symbolic but strategic, as Brighton continue investing in bridging the gap between academy and first-team football — with Barclay’s presence on and off the pitch playing a crucial role in that mission.
Alious
