James Trafford describes sitting on the bench at Manchester City last season as a horrendous experience that drove him to seek regular first-team football. Speaking on Football Daily’s The Football Interview, the goalkeeper explained that the lack of playing time severely impacted his mental wellbeing.
Leaving Manchester City for Wellbeing
City re-signed the academy graduate in July 2025, two years after he originally left the club to join Burnley in the Championship. However, less than six weeks after his return, Gianluigi Donnarumma arrived from Paris St-Germain following the French club’s Champions League victory. The Italian international immediately took over as Pep Guardiola’s first-choice goalkeeper.
After starting the first three matches of the campaign, 24-year-old Trafford made only one further Premier League appearance in the 35 games that followed. Reflecting on the period to BBC Sport, Trafford said, “What a horrendous, horrendous feeling. Not playing.” He admitted to frequently venting to his parents, his partner, and his friends to cope with the frustration.
“I had to play regularly this season for my own mental wellbeing. You just lose yourself not playing,” Trafford said, adding that he needed weekly action to keep progressing with his career and personal goals.
Despite the limited action, Trafford helped City win both the League Cup and the FA Cup after starting in both finals at Wembley. While acknowledging there were moments of deep disappointment and regret, he expressed gratitude for the learning experience and the two trophies.
Chasing the England Number One Spot
Trafford was included in England’s squad for the 2026 World Cup under manager Thomas Tuchel. Although he did not make any appearances during the tournament, he described being part of the squad as an unforgettable experience.
Looking ahead, Trafford stated that becoming England’s starting goalkeeper is his ultimate ambition. He believes that strong performances following his summer move to Leeds United will help him achieve that dream.
“It’s my aim and it’s something I’ve always dreamed of,” Trafford told BBC Sport. “I always believe that one day I could be. Every day I try to keep improving to put myself in the best position to be England’s number one one day.”
