Biography and City Career:

Born in Manchester on 10th June 1957, Peter, a 5’ 10” (1.78m) left winger, is the son of renowned City coach and scout Ken Barnes.

Peter came to City by way of Manchester Schoolboys, signing as an apprentice professional on 31st July 1972 and a full professional in July 1974. 

Gifted with a unique ability to make the difficult things look easy, he was described by one senior England player as “the most naturally talented player I have ever played alongside”.

Peter’s debut came against Old Trafford on 9th October 1974 in a League Cup game,  he came on as a substitute for Mike Doyle.

He had two spells at City; 1974-75 to 1978/79 and a short return in 1986 to 1988.

His skilful footwork and exciting runs soon made him a firm favourite with the fans and playing under manager Tony Book, he became an integral part of the mid 70’s team that played fast, free-flowing football.

He could play with both feet and was able to pass a fullback on either side. His natural balance, both on and off the ground was a great advantage in an era of hard tackling on heavy pitches. 

He developed a great understanding with goalkeeper Joe Corrigan, who knew he could throw the ball down the left wing and Peter would be there to receive it.

He scored the first goal in the 1976 League Cup final victory at the age of 18. Sold by new boss Malcolm Allison, in 1979 he joined West Bromwich Albion for £748,000 – a club transfer record that remained for 18 years.

Notable facts/stories:

Peter was named the 1976 PFA Young Player of the Year. He scored 2 goals in nine games for England under-21s and won 22 Full England caps, scoring 4 goals.

He is one of a small number of players to have played for both Manchester clubs.

Non-City career:

Playing for over 20 clubs both home and abroad, he made 398 match appearances followed by a brief spell managing Gibraltar. He was one of the first English players to move to Spain where he played 16 games for Real Betis 1982 – 1983.

His media work includes BBC Radio Manchester and as a Premier League pundit for Malaysian TV network Astro based in Kuala Lumpur.

Following the famous Sergio Aguero goal that clinched the 2011–12 Premier League title, the normally reserved Peter sang a live rendition of “Blue Moon” during the post-game show in Astro’s studios.

He has proudly followed in his father’s footsteps, developing pitches and running soccer schools for children.

Peter can also be seen at the Etihad on match days involved in hospitality, working alongside other legends.