Pep Guardiola remains undecided on his first-choice goalkeeper as Manchester City prepare to face Brighton in the Premier League on Sunday. The uncertainty follows James Trafford’s nervous showing in last week’s defeat to Tottenham, where a costly error placed him under immediate scrutiny. Trafford had started the season opener against Wolves, stepping in for Ederson, who was sidelined by illness.
Who Will Be Guardiola’s Number One?
The situation has been complicated by ongoing speculation over Ederson’s future and links to Paris Saint-Germain’s Gianluigi Donnarumma. Guardiola admitted the position may not be settled until after the transfer window closes and international football concludes.
“In this part of the season, and at all the clubs before the international transfer window is closed, everything is possible,” Guardiola told reporters. “After that, we’re going to play (Manchester) United and (in the) Champions League and Arsenal. After that everything will be more clear and we’ll take decisions.”
How Is Trafford Handling the Pressure?
Trafford, who rejoined City in July in a £27 million move after impressing at Burnley, is still adjusting to the pressure of life at the Etihad. Guardiola expressed confidence in his young goalkeeper’s resilience.
“We take care of them. Of course, he was concerned – I would not like it if he was not concerned, but of course we are here to help them, no doubt about that. We’re here to support in the bad moments.”
Could Ederson or Ortega Leave City?
Both Ederson and Stefan Ortega are in the final years of their contracts, with reports linking them to potential moves away before Monday’s deadline. Guardiola refused to comment on possible exits but admitted his squad is larger than he would like. “We have a long squad and all the players have maybe signings (elsewhere) – maybe. People leave. It’s what it is. The transfer (window) is in that way. You have to accept it.”
While the goalkeeper debate dominates headlines, Guardiola remains optimistic about midfielder Rodri, who is set to join Spain despite a limited start to the season. “He feels better and needs minutes,” Guardiola confirmed.
By Yockshard enyendi