By Martin Graham
Pep Guardiola believes James Trafford will eventually become England’s main goalkeeper. The 23-year-old started this campaign as Manchester City’s number one after rejoining from Burnley in the summer. He featured in the first three Premier League matches before Gianluigi Donnarumma arrived from Paris St-Germain on deadline day, pushing him to the bench.
Trafford did, however, start in City’s Carabao Cup win at Huddersfield and is expected to feature again against Swansea on Wednesday evening (19:45 GMT).
Guardiola acknowledged the challenge goalkeepers face when not playing regularly but praised Trafford’s professionalism and attitude during training.
“The goalkeeping role is different,” said the City boss. “Usually one plays, and the other must wait. We are really happy with how James works every day.”
Guardiola’s confidence in Trafford’s potential
The City manager highlighted Trafford’s importance to the squad and said cup games help maintain sharpness for all players. He added that progressing in domestic competitions allows those not starting in the Premier League or Champions League to stay ready for opportunities.
Trafford’s reputation has grown since his performances for England’s Under-21s at the 2023 European Championship, where he kept a perfect defensive record. Though uncapped at the senior level, he has been part of recent England squads.
Guardiola is convinced Trafford will one day be the country’s first-choice keeper, saying: “For England, sooner or later, he will be the one.”
He also noted the positive influence between Trafford and Donnarumma, explaining: “They learn from each other — goalkeepers always share ideas.”
Debate over transfer record
There remains disagreement about the size of Trafford’s transfer fee. City’s version of the deal is that it cost £27 million plus bonuses, but Burnley sources claim it was worth £31 million plus extras and a sell-on clause.
If Burnley’s valuation is correct, Trafford’s transfer would surpass the £30 million fee Everton paid Sunderland for Jordan Pickford in 2017, making him the most expensive British goalkeeper.
Pickford, currently Everton’s first choice and England’s long-term number one, holds 80 international caps and is on a record streak of nine consecutive clean sheets.
Haaland and Rodri fitness updates
Erling Haaland may be rested for the trip to Swansea after taking a heavy knock in Sunday’s loss at Aston Villa, where he collided with a post while scoring a goal later ruled out for offside.
Guardiola said the Norwegian striker’s injury is improving but suggested it could be a chance to rotate, with Omar Marmoush and Rayan Cherki candidates to start.
“I haven’t seen Erling today,” Guardiola said. “It was just a knock, and it’s getting better. We’ll see how he feels after training and decide then.”
Meanwhile, Rodri continues his recovery from a hamstring issue sustained before the international break. The Spain midfielder is back in training but remains unavailable for selection.
