James Trafford Describes Frustration Over Limited Playing Time at Manchester City
· Sports · BBC Sport
Goalkeeper James Trafford has described his experience on the fringes of the Manchester City squad last season as a "horrendous" period. After rejoining the club in July 2025, Trafford found himself as the second-choice goalkeeper following the arrival of Italy international Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris St-Germain. Despite starting the first three matches, Trafford made only one additional Premier League appearance across the remaining 35 games. The 24-year-old noted that he relied on support from his family and friends to cope with the lack of playing time. He ultimately moved to Leeds United in the summer to secure regular first-team football.
Why it matters
The transfer highlights the intense competition for starting positions at top-tier European clubs and the career challenges faced by young players when sidelined by high-profile signings.
Read the original report — BBC Sport
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