Pep Guardiola Confident James Trafford Will Become England No1 Goalkeeper Soon

Pep Guardiola, Manchester City's manager, believes James Trafford will eventually become England's first-choice goalkeeper despite limited playing time this season after Gianluigi Donnarumma's arrival from Paris Saint-Germain. Trafford, who returned to City from Burnley in a deal worth up to £31 million, started the season as City's first-choice goalkeeper but has mostly played in the Carabao Cup since. Guardiola emphasized the unique challenge for goalkeepers, noting only one usually plays regularly, but praised Trafford's professionalism and readiness in training. He also highlighted that both Donnarumma and Trafford learn from each other, reflecting a productive competitive environment. Although Jordan Pickford currently holds the England No. 1 spot with a record run of clean sheets, Guardiola is confident that Trafford's talent and temperament will see him take over the position "sooner or later." Trafford has yet to earn a senior England cap but has been included in recent squads and played a key role in England's Under-21 European Championship triumph.