James Trafford is currently experiencing a challenging phase in his Manchester City career. The 23-year-old goalkeeper, who returned to the club last summer, has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter in the Premier League.
Manchester City brought Trafford back from Burnley for £27 million, viewing him as a long-term successor to Ederson Moraes. His performances at Burnley during the 2024 season impressed Pep Guardiola, and the club believed he could play a key role in City’s future rebuild.
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Early Premier League Appearances
Trafford started the first 3 Premier League matches of the season. However, City’s Week 3 defeat to Brighton proved to be a turning point. Following that result, Pep Guardiola handed the No.1 role to Gianluigi Donnarumma, who has since established himself as City’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Since then, Trafford has featured mainly in domestic cup competitions. He recently played 90 minutes against Brentford in the Carabao Cup, helping City secure a 2-0 win and keeping a clean sheet. Despite that performance, he remains behind Donnarumma in the pecking order.
James Trafford has played 8 matches for Manchester City across all competitions, keeping 1 clean sheet and conceding 7 goals.
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Donnarumma’s Dominance
In contrast, Gianluigi Donnarumma has delivered consistently at the highest level. The 26-year-old Italian has started 13 league matches, keeping 6 clean sheets. He recently won the FIFA Best Goalkeeper Award 2025, following decisive performances in City’s UEFA Champions League triumph in 2024, including standout displays against PSG.
This season, Donnarumma has faced 36 shots, conceded just 12 goals, and saved 1 penalty, underlining his dominance as City’s undisputed first choice.
Guardiola’s Comments on Trafford
Pep Guardiola has openly addressed Trafford’s situation. Speaking about the goalkeeper rotation, he said: “He’s a keeper; it’s one or one. He cannot play left-back. At this moment, it’s Gigio playing in that position. But he’s a top-class keeper, there’s no doubt about that. I’m really pleased he can play more games in the Carabao Cup.”
Guardiola also highlighted Trafford’s experience and potential: “He played in the Champions League. I’m a guy who wants to give opportunities to everyone. I rely on him.”
Transfer Rumours and January Speculation
Due to limited minutes, rumours have emerged linking Trafford with a potential move away in January, with Tottenham Hotspur reportedly monitoring the situation. However, Guardiola firmly dismissed any exit speculation.
Ahead of City’s Carabao Cup match against Brentford on 17 December 2025, Guardiola said:
“Of course, he will stay in January. I have no news from him or his agent. From my point of view, I don’t know anything. He will stay here.”
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Learning from Donnarumma
Despite being Donnarumma’s understudy, Guardiola continues to express strong faith in Trafford: “He is an extraordinary goalkeeper. Even though Gigio is the main goalkeeper, Trafford is an extraordinary goalkeeper. The goalkeeper position is very special.”
While Trafford remains a substitute for now, training alongside one of the world’s best goalkeepers offers him a valuable opportunity to refine his game and prepare for a more prominent role in the future.
Conclusion
For the moment, James Trafford’s Manchester City journey remains one of patience, development, and high-level competition, as he continues to work toward becoming a regular starter in one of the world’s top clubs.
FAQs
1. How many matches has James Trafford played for Manchester City?
James Trafford has played 8 matches across all competitions for Manchester City this season.
2. How many clean sheets has Trafford kept?
Trafford has kept 1 clean sheet while conceding 7 goals for City.
3. Who is Manchester City’s first-choice goalkeeper?
Gianluigi Donnarumma is the first-choice goalkeeper, having started 13 league matches and keeping 6 clean sheets this season.
4. Has Trafford played in the Premier League this season?
Yes, Trafford started the first 3 Premier League matches, but is currently serving as Donnarumma’s understudy.
5. Is James Trafford likely to leave Manchester City in January?
Despite rumours linking him with Tottenham Hotspur, Pep Guardiola confirmed that Trafford will stay at Manchester City this season.
