Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has cast doubt over whether goalkeeper James Trafford will remain at the club next season. The 23-year-old shot-stopper, who rejoined City from Burnley in a high-profile move last summer, has found his opportunities limited following the arrival of Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Trafford initially started the first three Premier League games of the season. However, Donnarumma's arrival on deadline day dramatically shifted Trafford's role, with the Italian immediately becoming the first-choice goalkeeper. Despite this, Guardiola has previously insisted that Trafford would not be leaving the club during the January transfer window, shutting down immediate speculation of a move. He also stated City's desire for stability and quality behind Donnarumma.

Guardiola has been complimentary of Trafford's abilities, stating that he is a "top" and "incredible keeper". He also noted that Trafford is training better than ever. Guardiola has also suggested that Trafford has a bright future and could become England's number one goalkeeper. Despite the arrival of Donnarumma, Guardiola had said that all the second keepers always play a lot of games.

Trafford's return to Manchester City came after a successful period with Burnley, where he helped the club gain promotion back to the Premier League. At the time of his return, it was believed that he would be re-joining the club as Guardiola's number one, especially with Ederson potentially moving to Fenerbahce.

However, the unexpected availability of Donnarumma, a goalkeeper of world-class status, changed the landscape. Despite the limited game time, City have consistently downplayed the idea of a short-term exit for Trafford. Previous reports indicated that Guardiola would prefer to keep Trafford and allow Stefan Ortega Moreno, whose contract expires in 2026, to leave.

Despite Guardiola's recent comments about Trafford's long-term future, he has defended Trafford in public, insisting that City are happy with him. He has also implied that there could be opportunities for rotation in goal, with City competing in multiple competitions. However, with Donnarumma firmly established as the first choice, Trafford's pathway to regular football at City appears blocked.