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BECKHAM GOES PRO: City Academy talent signs long-term deal

Melbourne City FC is delighted to announce that 16-year-old midfielder Beckham Baker has signed his first professional contract with the Club. 

Baker has committed to City on a three-year deal through to the end of the 2027/28 season, with an option to extend for a further two years. 

A familiar face at the Club, Baker first joined City’s Academy in 2019 at age 10, having previously spent time with some of the biggest names in English football, including Manchester City, Chelsea, and Manchester United. 

In 2022, he returned to Europe to join the youth system of La Liga outfit Villarreal CF, before rejoining City’s Academy in 2024. Since then, he has continued to elevate his game – driven by a strong work ethic, great technical ability, and a hunger to improve every day. 

A creative and technically gifted attacking midfielder, Baker offers attacking versatility – equally effective playing centrally or out wide, with strong 1v1 ability and a sharp eye for goal. 

Earlier this year, he marked his VPL1 debut with a goal and has since gone on to make 20 appearances, contributing an impressive 19 goal involvements (11 goals and eight assists) in a standout campaign at youth level. 

Melbourne City FC Senior Academy Manager, Simon Zappia, said: 

“Beckham is a fantastic kid – always smiling, eager to learn, and consistently pushing to get better. 

“He’s worked tirelessly to build a strong technical foundation, and since returning to City has developed significantly in both his physical presence and tactical understanding. 

“He’s had an outstanding impact on our VPL1 team this season, and we’re excited to see him take the next step towards senior football. 

Melbourne City FC Director of Football, Michael Petrillo, said: 

“Beckham is one of the most exciting young players to come through our Academy in recent years, and we’re thrilled to have secured his future at the Club. 

“He possesses a strong technical foundation paired with a clear focus and hunger to develop – which has shown in his performances this season. 

“We’re confident that with his ability and attitude, he has the potential to make a real impact in the years ahead.”

Beckham Baker said: 

“Signing my first professional contract is a dream come true and doing it at a Club I’ve called home for so long makes it even more special. 

“Being part of Melbourne City has helped me grow on and off the pitch, and I know I’m in the best place to keep developing. 

“This is just the beginning. I’m ready to put in the work, keep growing, and make sure I’m ready when my chance comes.