Trafford: losing City place was 'horrendous'

England goalkeeper James Trafford has confirmed his switch from Manchester City to Leeds United in a deal reported to be worth up to £45 million, after a brief and frustrating spell at the Etihad where he lost his starting place under Pep Guardiola following the club’s £27 million signing of Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Trafford rejoined Manchester City from Burnley in a £27 million transfer after a standout season and was selected for the club’s first three Premier League matches. He quickly became the first‑choice goalkeeper under Pep Guardiola.

Donnarumma’s arrival curtails Trafford’s role

On transfer deadline day Manchester City completed the £45 million signing of PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, relegating Trafford to domestic cup duties. The Italian instantly assumed the starting berth, leaving Trafford on the bench.

Trafford later departed the Etihad for Leeds United in a package reported to be worth up to £45 million. The move promised regular first‑team action.

Despite collecting the League Cup and FA Cup with City, Trafford admitted he felt unwanted and unfulfilled. He described the mental frustration of losing his place.

“What a horrendous, horrendous feeling—not playing,” Trafford said. “You are ringing a lot of people and just venting.”

He explained that consistent match action was essential for his mental wellbeing, saying he needed to play each week to avoid feeling lost. The goalkeeper added that the lack of game time felt “horrendous”.

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Looking back, Trafford said he is grateful for the experience, calling his year at City “incredible”. He acknowledged moments of disappointment but stressed personal growth.

Timeline of the Manchester City spell

Trafford returned to Manchester City in July 2025 from Burnley, two years after leaving the club’s youth academy. His perspective shifted when Donnarumma arrived less than six weeks later, fresh from a Champions League triumph with PSG.

The Italian immediately became the first‑choice goalkeeper, pushing Trafford onto the reserve bench. After three starts at the start of the season, Trafford made only one further Premier League appearance in the remaining 35 matches.

During his City tenure he featured in both the League Cup and FA Cup finals at Wembley, collecting both trophies. He also travelled with England to the 2026 World Cup, though he did not feature on the pitch.

At Leeds United, Trafford has started all nine competitive matches of the current season, keeping three clean sheets. His performances have helped Leeds sit twelfth in the league, just two points shy of a European qualification place ahead of the next weekend.

Trafford praised the club’s atmosphere and ambition, saying Leeds is an “incredible club” eager to return to European competition. He believes the regular playing time will aid his development and keep his England aspirations alive.