Guardiola Confirms Trafford to Start in Cup Final vs Arsenal

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed that goalkeeper James Trafford will start in the Carabao Cup final against Arsenal on Sunday at Wembley Stadium. The 23-year-old, who joined the club from Burnley last summer for approximately 27 million pounds, has been the backup to Gianluigi Donnarumma since the Italian's arrival from Paris Saint-Germain in late August.

Trafford's selection reflects Guardiola's preference for using a secondary goalkeeper in domestic cup competitions. He has featured in all of Manchester City's Carabao Cup matches this season, including the semifinal against Newcastle United, where he helped secure a 5-1 aggregate victory. Across five starts in the tournament, Trafford has kept three clean sheets and conceded just two goals, contributing to the team's progression past Huddersfield Town, Swansea City and Brentford.

The decision comes despite Donnarumma's strong performances in the Premier League and Champions League, where he has been the undisputed first choice. Trafford has made only 12 appearances overall this season, with no league starts since early in the campaign. He has expressed disappointment over his limited opportunities, telling...