Troyes forward undergoing Manchester City trial amid Hugo Viana rebuild | OneFootball

Troyes forward Christ Batola has been sent to train with Manchester City’s youth sides, according to reports from France.

The 16-year-old has been invited to work with City’s U18 and U19 sides in what represents a significant next step in a relationship that has been building for some time.

Batola plays for Troyes, who are part of the City Football Group network, meaning City have had a close eye on his development from an early stage.

Batola was bumped up an age group earlier this season, allowing him to participate for France at the FIFA U17 World Cup, where he scored three goals in 16 games for Les Bleuets.

He has since also featured for the France U18 side and was given his first-team debut by Troyes this season, coming off the bench in a Coupe de France clash.

Report: Batola invited to train with City youth sides

As reported by Le Parisien and relayed by Get French Football News, Batola has been sent to train with Manchester City‘s U18 and U19 sides.

This trial is a clear signal of intent from City, who are understood to have beaten PSG in the race for Batola and Troyes teammate Mathys Detourbet.

While any permanent move to England remains a longer-term prospect, Batola would not be eligible to relocate until he turns 18 in 2028 – and the training invitation represents a concrete step in City’s efforts to integrate him into their ecosystem ahead of that window opening.

What is the wider context for City’s interest?

City have been closely following Batola’s progress over the last six months, with the striker’s physical profile, composure in senior environments and prolific record for Troyes’ youth sides making him one of the more intriguing teenage talents to have emerged from France this term.

The CFG model has long relied on its network of sister clubs to identify and develop talent before it reaches full market value, with Troyes serving as one of the key feeder clubs in that structure.

Batola’s training visit to England’s north-west suggests Manchester City have no intention of allowing him to drift elsewhere when the time comes to make his next move.