James Trafford appears to be reflecting honestly on his situation at Manchester City, with Softfootball reporting that the goalkeeper did not anticipate becoming back-up this season.
In comments shared by journalist Fabrizio Romano on his official X handle, Trafford admitted he did not expect the club to sign Gianluigi Donnarumma last summer.
Fabrizio posted:
James Trafford says he didn’t know Man City were gonna sign Donnarumma last summer: “I’ve got a contract, so I don’t know what happens next season”. “I just know that I’ll just take it a day at a time and try and improve”
James Trafford:
I didn’t expect the situation to happen, but it happened, so just get on with it, I’ve obviously got a contract, but I don’t know what happens next season. I just know that I’ll take it a day at a time and try and improve.
The 23-year-old joined Manchester City on July 29, 2025, in a £27 million return deal from Burnley, signing a five-year contract. Having first joined City in 2021, Trafford spent multiple spells out on loan and struggled for continuity due to injuries. His return was expected to mark a fresh chapter.
However, City signed Donnarumma in September 2025 following Éderson’s move to Fenerbahçe, leaving Trafford as second choice.
It wasn’t what I expected coming into the season. I tried to guard against it. It’s the reality and I have to give it my best shot.
Trafford explained.
He insists he was not promised the number one spot, but acknowledged that the original plan did not unfold as anticipated. For now, Trafford says his focus remains on working hard daily and taking every opportunity that comes, while uncertainty remains over what next season may hold.
