Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has voiced strong belief in young goalkeeper James Trafford, confidently stating that the 23-year-old will ascend to become England's number one goalkeeper "sooner or later." Trafford commenced the current season as Manchester City's initial first-choice keeper following his transfer back from Burnley over the summer. He notably started and played in the opening three Premier League fixtures.

However, Trafford's position as a regular starter shifted after the deadline day acquisition of Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris St-Germain, subsequently moving him to a substitute role. Despite this change, Trafford has continued to feature for the club, including an appearance in the Carabao Cup third-round triumph against Huddersfield. He is expected to return to the starting lineup for Wednesday's Carabao Cup encounter against Swansea, scheduled for 19:45 GMT.

Guardiola commented on the unique dynamics of the goalkeeper position, acknowledging, "The keeper is a special situation because the keeper plays, normally one, and the second one doesn't." He also expressed satisfaction with Trafford's commitment and professionalism, adding, "All I can say is we are delighted with his behaviour in training." The manager further explained the club's motivation for advancing in cup competitions, emphasizing the necessity for all players to be prepared: "One of the reasons why we want to go through in this competition is because they all have to be ready in case we need in the Premier League and the Champions League."