Is Trafford Regretting His Return to Manchester City?

James Trafford’s Dilemma

James Trafford has made a high-profile return to Manchester City, sparking questions about whether he may now regret that decision. The 22-year-old English goalkeeper, who previously developed in City’s youth system without making a senior appearance, transferred from Burnley in the summer. He played a crucial role in Burnley’s promotion to the Premier League last season after experiencing relegation prior.

At the beginning of the current season, Trafford was given the number one jersey and was expected to compete with Ederson for the starting position. He even started the first three matches of the Premier League season, seemingly ahead of the curve.

However, everything changed on transfer deadline day. Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola opted to sell Ederson to Fenerbahce, only to bring in Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris Saint-Germain for £26 million. This move has sidelined Trafford, who now must compete against a celebrated goalkeeper instead of stepping into the starting role he anticipated.

He will have a chance to showcase his skills again in the Carabao Cup against Huddersfield on Wednesday, having been confirmed to start in that match.

Trafford’s Previous Choices

Earlier this summer, Trafford had a chance to join Newcastle but ultimately decided on a return to Manchester City. Just two months after leaving Burnley, he may be second-guessing that choice. Former Manchester City goalie Shay Given voiced that Trafford is a talented player with immense potential, expressing sympathy over his situation. Given noted how a pitch from Guardiola about regular play in the Premier League and potential World Cup prospects could lead to disappointment following Donnarumma’s arrival.

“James Trafford is an exceptional goalkeeper,” Given stated. “In a World Cup year, Pep likely assured him that the number one shirt was his… But now, after just weeks, he finds himself on the bench. I’d be furious.”

Trafford: A Bright Future Ahead?

“I always dreamed of returning to Manchester City,” Trafford said upon signing a five-year contract. “It’s my home.” The transfer fee, which caused some confusion, has been reported differently by the respective clubs involved. While City claims it’s £27 million plus add-ons, Burnley asserts it to be £31 million plus add-ons and a sell-on clause—potentially setting a new record for a British goalkeeper.

Trafford’s impressive record of 29 clean sheets in 45 Championship matches earned him the PFA Championship Player of the Year award. He made a strong debut for City, on a day they won 4-0 against Wolves, although he did make an error in a subsequent match against Tottenham. Still, he was one of the rare players with a positive performance from the loss to Brighton.

With World Cup qualifiers on the horizon, Trafford had hopes of carving out a spot in England’s squad. However, that pathway has become more complicated with Donnarumma’s signing. Despite being a promising talent with a bright future, he will now play a backup role while City continues their campaign across competitions.

Guardiola confirmed Trafford’s fantastic attitude during training, indicating that second-choice goalkeepers typically receive ample opportunities to play, and it’s expected he will appear in multiple matches this season.

Trafford’s Competition

Eddie Howe’s Newcastle had displayed interest in Trafford, and he showed enthusiasm about potentially joining the club. However, lengthy negotiations on a proper fee ensued. Manchester City had a sell-on clause in Trafford’s agreement with Burnley, allowing them the right to match any incoming offers. Upon agreeing to terms with Newcastle, City reactivated that clause, leading Trafford to choose another return to Manchester.

Joining Newcastle would have set him against Nick Pope for the starting position, but securing that role was never a guarantee. In contrast, Trafford finds himself up against the elite goalkeeper Donnarumma, who was recently recognized as the world’s best keeper.

Donnarumma has an impressive résumé, with 76 caps for the Italian national team and accolades that include the Yashin Award. Meanwhile, Trafford is yet to make a senior appearance for England, making his ascent tougher.

Guardiola saw the signing of the distinguished Donnarumma as a significant opportunity, nudging Trafford into a supporting role despite his readiness for a starting position.

On Wednesday evening, Trafford will head to Huddersfield, perhaps reflecting on what might have unfolded had he chosen to head to the northeast instead of returning to City.