James Trafford: Not playing for Manchester City was 'horrendous'
Leeds United goalkeeper James Trafford reflects on his difficult season at Manchester City and his ambitions to become England's number one.
James Trafford has described his final season at Manchester City as a "horrendous" experience. The goalkeeper returned to the club in July 2025, but his path to the first team was blocked just weeks later following the arrival of Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris Saint-Germain.
After starting the first three matches of the campaign, Trafford found himself sidelined, making only one further Premier League appearance in the 35 games that followed Donnarumma's arrival. He admitted that the lack of playing time took a significant emotional toll, forcing him to rely on his support network to cope with the frustration.
What a horrendous, horrendous feeling. Not playing. You are ringing a lot of people and just venting. James Trafford
Despite the lack of minutes, Trafford looks back on the campaign with some gratitude, noting that he gained valuable experience while helping the club secure the League Cup and FA Cup. He eventually completed a move to Leeds United in a deal worth up to £45m, setting a record for a British goalkeeper.
Now a regular starter at Elland Road, Trafford has played all nine of Leeds' Premier League matches this season, helping the team concede only eight goals. His strong performances have fueled his long-term ambition: becoming England's number one goalkeeper.
Having been part of the England squad at the 2026 World Cup, Trafford remains driven by his international goals. He believes that by continuing his development at Leeds and helping the club push for European qualification, he can put himself in the best position to earn the starting spot for his country.