Standout goalkeeper Ben Collinson, of Bingley, starred in the club's under-12s side at the prestigious Premier League Christmas Truce Tournament in Ypres, Belgium.
The Year 7 Bradford Grammar School (BGS) pupil joined top teams from across Europe to compete in the historic tournament, which commemorates the Christmas Truce of 1914.
Ben is a pupil at BGSBen is a pupil at BGS (Image: Bradford Grammar School) Alongside high-stakes matches, Ben took part in cultural activities, including a wreath-laying ceremony at the Menin Gate and an immersive experience of life in World War I trenches.
On the pitch, City delivered standout performances, defeating Bayer Leverkusen 5-0 and rivals Liverpool 2-0.
They also secured a 1-1 draw against Southampton, who narrowly finished above them to win the tournament.
The 12-year-old said: “It was amazing to represent City in Belgium, especially being able to lay the wreath on behalf of the club at the Menin Gate ceremony and going to see the history of the war, where my grandad’s uncle was killed.
“The matches were tough, but we were pleased with our performances.
"It was great experience, and the cultural side of the tournament made it so special; one I’ll always remember.”
Ben lays the wreath at Menin GateBen lays the wreath at Menin Gate (Image: Bradford Grammar School)
How Ben got into playing football
Ben began playing football at just four years old and was scouted by several clubs by the age of six.
He joined Manchester City’s young player development programme, where his talent as a goalkeeper caught the eye of Giulio Romano, the club’s Junior Academy goalkeeper coach.
Officially signed as a goalkeeper at under-9s level, Ben now serves as the club’s goalie in the under-12 team.
As part of City’s hybrid training programme, Ben trains at the Etihad campus, in Manchester, three times a week and competes in games on Sundays.
He is doing the school proudHe is doing the school proud (Image: Bradford Grammar School)
'A fantastic achievement'
His mother, Katie Collinson, said: “We chose BGS because the school understands the pressures of elite sport and provides the perfect balance between academics and athletics.
“He absolutely loves playing rugby for BGS, and his Manchester City coaches really encourage him to have a variety of sports in his life.
"School rugby has made him a stronger, more confident sportsman, improved his footwork and helped him become an even better team player.”
BGS Headmaster Dr Simon Hinchliffe, said: “Ben’s participation in the Truce Tournament is a fantastic achievement, not just for the high level of competition but also for the invaluable educational experiences it offered.
"It’s inspiring to see how sport can teach young people important lessons about history, teamwork and respect, and we’re incredibly proud of how Ben has embraced both aspects of this opportunity.”