Manchester City Goalkeeper James Trafford has left Man City to join this Premier League Rival after he was made Second Choice Goalkeeper despite coming in before Gianluigi Donnarumma
Pep Guardiola, the manager of Manchester City, hasn’t ruled out James Trafford potentially departing the club when the current season concludes.
The goalkeeper, now 22, returned to City from Burnley during the summer transfer window and initially played in the opening trio of matches. However, his status changed when the team secured Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris St-Germain on deadline day.
Since Donnarumma’s arrival, Trafford has dropped to backup duties, though he did play in last Saturday’s FA Cup match where City defeated Exeter 10-1, and is set to feature in Tuesday’s Carabao Cup semi-final opening leg against Newcastle.
Guardiola praised Trafford’s response to the new signing, noting he handled the situation without protest and reaffirming his quality as a goalkeeper. The manager acknowledged the unique challenge goalkeepers face, explaining that unlike outfield positions with rotation opportunities, goalkeeping typically means one player or the other gets the starting spot.
When questioned about a potential January departure, Guardiola initially dismissed it, expressing his desire for Trafford to remain long-term. However, he also recognized the particular nature of the goalkeeper position and indicated that future developments remain uncertain.
Trafford had previously declined an opportunity to join Newcastle over the summer, a move that might have enhanced his prospects of challenging Jordan Pickford for England’s number one position.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe spoke positively about Trafford’s abilities and commended City’s strong goalkeeper options. Howe avoided speculating on transfer possibilities, instead wishing Trafford well and expressing readiness to face him if he features in the upcoming match.
