Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed that one of his players will surely start Sunday’s EFL Cup final against Arsenal at Wembley Stadium.
City’s route to the final has provided opportunities for James Trafford to feature regularly in the cup, even as he has largely played a supporting role since his £27m move from Burnley and the coach confirmed that he will be between the posts on Sunday.
The 23-year-old has started only a limited number of matches across all competitions this season, but his impact in the EFL Cup has been significant.
He has been selected in five matches in the competition, delivering composed performances that underline his potential.
Trafford has recorded three clean sheets and conceded just twice, playing a key role in City’s progress to yet another final. They have overcome Huddersfield Town, Swansea City, Brentford and reigning champions Newcastle United, including a commanding 5-1 aggregate victory over the Magpies in the semi-finals.
Despite having Donnarumma available as his first-choice goalkeeper, Guardiola has chosen continuity. The decision reflects both trust in Trafford’s performances and a broader philosophy of rewarding players who have contributed throughout a cup run.
Speaking ahead of the final, Guardiola said he was satisfied with Trafford’s attitude and displays, while acknowledging the natural frustrations that can arise from limited playing time.
“Good. Nothing to say. Players can be happy, or unhappy, it is what it is,” he said. “We have to do our best when they do, and afterwards we have to see what happens at the end of the season.”
The City manager also emphasised the importance of readiness within his squad, particularly in high-stakes fixtures. “The important is they have to be ready… [Trafford starting is a] Big moment for the team.”
City’s faith in Trafford signals confidence not only in his current form but also in his ability to handle the pressure of a major final at Wembley, where the club have become familiar visitors in recent years.
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Standing between City and another piece of silverware are an Arsenal side Guardiola has described as “exceptional”. The north London club have impressed with their consistency and style, setting up a final that promises to be closely contested.
For Manchester City, the match represents their 23rd appearance at Wembley over the past decade, underlining a sustained period of domestic dominance. They will be aiming to lift the EFL Cup for the ninth time, a tally bettered only by Liverpool.
Attention will also fall on Erling Haaland, whose recent form has drawn scrutiny. The striker has found the net five times in his last 19 appearances and has missed matches in recent weeks due to minor injury concerns.
However, Guardiola expressed confidence that the Norwegian will be ready for the occasion.
“I’m pretty sure that he is focused like all of us,” he said. “I haven’t spoken to him, he’s had two days off, but I’m pretty sure he’s ready.”
City’s preparation for the final reflects both experience and expectation. With a squad accustomed to competing for honours, Guardiola’s side will approach the match with belief, while Arsenal will seek to disrupt their rhythm and claim a major trophy of their own.
