By Martin Graham
Believe Pep Guardiola James Trafford he will eventually become England’s leading goalkeeper. The 23-year-old began this campaign as Manchester City number one after re-joining from Burnley in the summer. He previously featured in the first three Premier League games Gianluigi Donnarumma he arrived from Paris St-Germain on deadline day, pushing him to the bench.
Trafford, however, started in City’s Carabao Cup win at Huddersfield and is expected to return to action against Swansea on Wednesday evening (19:45 GMT).
Guardiola acknowledged the challenge goalkeepers face when they don’t play regularly, but praised Trafford’s professionalism and attitude during training.
“The goaltending role is different,” said the city boss. “Usually one plays, and the other has to wait. We’re very happy with how James works every day.”
Guardiola’s confidence in Trafford’s potential
The City manager stressed the importance of Trafford to the squad and said cup games help keep it sharp for all the players. He added that progressing in domestic competitions allows those who do not start in the Premier League or the Champions League to be ready for opportunities.
Trafford’s reputation has grown since his performances with England Under-21s at the 2023 European Championship, where he maintained a perfect defensive record. Although he is uncapped at senior level, he has been part of recent England caps.
Guardiola is convinced that Trafford will one day be the country’s number one goalkeeper, saying: “For England, sooner or later, it will be him.”
He also noted the positive influence between Trafford and Donnarumma, explaining: “They learn from each other – goalkeepers always share ideas.”
Debate on transfer registration
There is disagreement over the size of Trafford’s transfer fee. City’s version of the deal is that it cost £27m plus bonuses, but Burnley sources claim it was worth £31m plus extras and a sell-on clause.
If Burnley’s assessment is correct, Trafford’s transfer would surpass Everton’s £30m fee for Sunderland. Jordan Pickford in 2017, making him the most expensive British goalkeeper.
Pickford, currently Everton’s first choice and England’s long-term number one, has 80 international caps and is on a record nine consecutive clean sheets.
Haaland and Rodri fitness updates
Erling Haaland He may be rested for the trip to Swansea after suffering a heavy knock in Sunday’s defeat at Aston Villa, where he collided with a post while scoring a goal then ruled out for offside.
Guardiola said the Norwegian striker’s injury is improving but suggested it could be an opportunity to rotate, with candidates Omar Marmoush and Rayan Cherki expected to start.
“I didn’t see Erling today,” Guardiola said. “It was just a knock, and he’s getting better. We’ll see how he feels after practice and decide then.”
Meanwhile, Rodri continues to recover from a hamstring problem suffered before the international break. The Spanish midfielder has returned to training, but is not available for the national team.
