Betrayed by Guardiola, a summer signing wants to flee City

City: A broken promise ignites the dressing room

Betrayed by Guardiola, a summer signing wants to flee City

James Trafford thought he was taking a big step forward by joining Manchester City, lured by the prospect of a near-guaranteed starting spot after Ederson's potential departure. But the late arrival of Gianluigi Donnarumma turned everything upside down. Pushed behind the Italian in the pecking order, the English goalkeeper has only featured in six matches—a meager tally for a player targeting the 2026 World Cup with the Three Lions. "Donnarumma has claimed several victims at City," some in England are already saying, with his impact on the club's hierarchy described as ruthless.

According to British media, Trafford's departure now seems inevitable. The Daily Mail reports that Trafford wants to leave as early as January to revive his season, a desire only strengthened by Thomas Tuchel's warning: he "won't select players who aren't playing." Newcastle has emerged as a credible destination, given the urgent need for the young keeper to get regular minutes.

Behind him, Stefan Ortega is enduring a similar plight. At 33, the German has gone from being a reliable backup to fourth choice and isn't even included in matchday squads anymore. Both keepers feel sidelined, but according to English press, Trafford in particular feels "betrayed" by Pep Guardiola—convinced by the promise of a starting role only to be sacrificed at the last minute for Donnarumma. It's a decision that could well hasten his departure this winter.