Trafford targets England’s No. 1 spot after City struggle

Trafford said spending much of last season out of Manchester City’s starting lineup was difficult. City brought the academy graduate back in July 2025, but Gianluigi Donnarumma arrived less than six weeks later and took over as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper. Trafford started three early-season matches, then made only one more Premier League start in the following 35 games.

Despite the frustration, Trafford said the season brought valuable experience. He started the League Cup and FA Cup finals as City won both competitions, and said he had developed as a player. He also described being included in England’s 2026 World Cup squad as a memorable experience, although he did not play.

Trafford moved to Leeds United after the World Cup in a deal worth up to £45 million, a record fee for a British goalkeeper. He has been in Leeds’ starting lineup for each of its nine Premier League matches this season and kept three clean sheets. Leeds had conceded eight goals and sat 12th before the weekend’s fixtures, two points outside the European places.

The goalkeeper said regular football at Leeds gives him a chance to keep improving and pursue his ambition of starting for England. He also said the club wants to return to European competition, while stressing that continued progress is the immediate priority.