James Trafford returned to Manchester City this week and took part in his first training session back at the City Football Academy following a big-money move from Burnley.The 22-year-old goalkeeper wa...
James Trafford returned to Manchester City this week and took part in his first training session back at the City Football Academy following a big-money move from Burnley.
The 22-year-old goalkeeper was back in familiar surroundings as he joined up with Pep Guardiola’s senior squad ahead of the new season, after completing a sensational return to the club where he first rose through the ranks.
Trafford’s comeback follows a £31 million total agreement between the two clubs – factoring in add-ons and a previous sell-on clause – which makes him the new most expensive British goalkeeper of all time.
Manchester City fans will no doubt remember James Trafford from his earlier years in the club’s academy system, where he was rated as one of the country’s top young talents before making a permanent switch to Burnley in 2023.
His time at Turf Moor, although initially mixed following relegation from the Premier League, provided vital first-team experience and showcased his exceptional abilities in their promotion back into the top-flight last season.
His return comes at a fascinating time for Pep Guardiola’s goalkeeping department with Ederson continuing to be linked with Galatasaray interest and Stefan Ortega now expected to leave following Trafford’s arrival. The England shot-stopper will now be eager to stake his claim during pre-season, particularly with Manchester City’s upcoming fixtures against Palermo in a friendly and the opening weekend of the top-flight campaign against Wolves.
Following James Trafford’s first training session back as a Manchester City player, here are the best behind-the-scenes images from the City Football Academy this week!
Category: General Sports
