James Trafford left Man City for Leeds to protect mental wellbeing
24-year-old goalkeeper James Trafford opens up about his difficult season as a substitute at Manchester City following the arrival of Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- James Trafford joined Leeds United in the summer to secure regular first-team football.
- The goalkeeper described not playing at Manchester City as a horrendous feeling.
- Gianluigi Donnarumma arrived from PSG and immediately became City's number one.
- Trafford aims to maintain strong performances to become England's starting goalkeeper.
James Trafford has opened up about the reasons behind his departure from Manchester City, admitting that spending last season on the sidelines took a severe toll on his mental wellbeing and pushed him to seek a fresh start at Leeds United during the summer transfer window.
Manchester City re-signed the 24-year-old academy graduate in July 2025, two years after he had moved to Championship side Burnley. However, the situation at the Etihad Stadium shifted dramatically less than six weeks after his return when Italy international Gianluigi Donnarumma arrived from Paris St-Germain, fresh from helping the French club lift the Champions League trophy.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
Donnarumma was immediately installed as Pep Guardiola's first-choice goalkeeper, leaving Trafford with severely limited playing time. After starting the opening three matches of the campaign, the young English shot-stopper made only one further Premier League appearance in the 35 games that followed the Italian's arrival.
Navigating the psychological pressures of professional sports is a significant challenge for elite athletes. A lack of match action can often lead to a loss of form and confidence, making strategic transfers essential for players seeking to sustain their career development and personal wellbeing.
Speaking on Football Daily's The Football Interview, Trafford reflected candidly on the emotional toll of being on the fringes of the squad:
"What a horrendous, horrendous feeling. Not playing... I had to play regularly this season for my own mental wellbeing. You just lose yourself not playing."
James Trafford
Trafford explained that on difficult days, he relied on calling his parents, his partner, and close friends to vent his frustrations. He emphasized that weekly match action was essential not only for his mental health and happiness but also for keeping his career progression on track toward achieving his long-term ambitions.
Despite his limited minutes in the league, Trafford believes his final season with City was far from a disappointment. He noted that he gained invaluable experience and played a key role in helping the club secure both the League Cup and the FA Cup after starting in both finals at Wembley Stadium.
Looking ahead, Trafford harbours strong ambitions of claiming the number one jersey for the England national team, believing that maintaining his impressive club form with Leeds United will make that ultimate career goal entirely achievable.
Source: BBC Sport
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