Trafford’s Journey at Manchester City: Challenges and Aspirations

omidbasir- In the summer of 2025, Trafford, who began his career in Manchester City’s academy, rejoined the club with a £27 million ($37 million) transfer from Burnley. He arrived back in Manchester as a winner of the European U21 Championship, harboring aspirations of becoming a senior international player.

Initially, Guardiola entrusted Trafford with the starting goalkeeper position. However, the acquisition of Euro 2020 champion Gianluigi Donnarumma for £26 million ($35 million) quickly shifted the dynamics, bewildering many, including some teammates. As a result, Donnarumma took over as City’s first-choice keeper, relegating Trafford to a backup role, where he has not seen Premier League action since August 31. Nonetheless, he has stepped up as the cup custodian, making 11 appearances across various competitions.

Trafford expressed surprise at City’s pursuit of Donnarumma, particularly as he was poised to secure a starting position at the Etihad. He reflected, “I didn’t expect the situation to happen, but it happened, so just get on with it. It’s happened, so I work very hard every day and see what happens, giving it my best shot.”

While Trafford acknowledged that he was never explicitly promised the No. 1 spot, he anticipated being a leading contender. He remarked, “No, it wasn’t that, but the plan wasn’t what happened. It is what it is. It’s football; you’ve got to keep working hard every day and give your best in the games you do play. It’s just another experience to add to my career, and it has been a good learning opportunity.”

Guardiola praised Trafford’s reliability, particularly after granting him a rare start in City’s 2-0 FA Cup victory over Salford, stating, “He is so reliable. Fantastic keeper.”

However, Trafford is aware that such endorsements may not be enough to deter interest from other clubs should enticing offers arise in the next transfer window. When discussing his future, he stated, “Let’s take it a day at a time and work as hard as I can. Whatever happens, happens. I have a contract, so I don’t know what next season holds.”

Despite the competition for places, City’s impressive performance across multiple tournaments this season has kept Trafford engaged. The team has advanced to the fifth round of the FA Cup, the last 16 of the Champions League, the Carabao Cup final, and remains in contention for the Premier League title.

Nonetheless, Donnarumma is expected to dominate in league matches and crucial European encounters, potentially limiting Trafford’s opportunities. This scarcity of playing time could hinder his chances of attracting the attention of England’s manager, Thomas Tuchel.

Trafford has not received any indicators suggesting that the Three Lions are considering alternative options behind regular starter Jordan Pickford. Regarding his aspirations for a World Cup spot, he noted, “I haven’t spoken to them about whether that’s enough, but I play as well as I can and train hard every day. It’s down to me. Everyone knows what’s going on with me, so I’ve just got to perform whenever I play.”

England is set to compete against Uruguay and Japan in late March, the final matches before Tuchel finalizes his World Cup squad. For Trafford, these upcoming fixtures could be crucial in his pursuit of a place on the flight to North America.