James Trafford thanks Manchester City fans as departure considered this summer

James Trafford says he feels the affection of Manchester City supporters and explains that his origins from the north of England make him “a bit relatable” to fans. In an interview for the club magazine in June, the goalkeeper from Cumbria looked back on a season full of events, between cup success and call-up to the national team.

Loaned as a youth to Accrington Stanley then to Bolton Wanderers to gain playing time, Trafford was then transferred permanently to Burnley where he shone: during the Championship season which led to promotion, he conceded only 16 goals in 46 matches. Returning to Manchester City, he was a major player in Pep Guardiola's cup campaigns last season.

The 23-year-old goalkeeper contributed to the Carabao Cup – FA Cup double by keeping a series of clean sheets: seven matches without conceding out of 12 matches played in these two competitions. His most notable performance was undoubtedly this triple save against Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley, when the score was still 0-0, a decisive move in winning City's first trophy of the season.

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In the FA Cup, City reached the final for the fourth consecutive year – an unprecedented run – but lost after Antoine Semenyo scored the decisive goal 19 minutes from time in London.

His progress and maturity have earned him a call-up to Thomas Tuchel's English squad for the 2026 World Cup, recognition of his good performance despite his young age. Asked about the connection with the supporters, Trafford said: “I feel the love from the fans and that makes me very happy. I have a lot of affection from the City fans — the core of the club, very normal Mancunians. I think in a way I can resonate with them: I'm a northern guy, calm and honest, and I think they see that. So yes, I feel a lot of love, whether on social networks, when I meet them or during matches. It's really nice. »

While Gianluigi Donnarumma is also in the squad and the competition for the starting position is open, Trafford could nevertheless seek a departure this summer to obtain more minutes. According to reports revealed around four weeks ago, Aston Villa had embarked on this course, although discussions since appear to have calmed down.

Whatever happens, Trafford's trajectory - from loans in League One and Championship to a winning return to the Etihad and selection for the World Cup - illustrates his work and his rise to power at the highest level.