James Trafford hints at move away from Manchester City as youngster eyes up England starting spot

James Trafford has hinted at a move away from Manchester as the youngster eyes up the starting spot in England's goal.Trafford is one of three keepers in Thomas Tuchel's side, working with Dean Henderson and Jordan Pickford.The 23-year-old had a tough season with Manchester City after the signing of Gianluigi Donnarumma, who became Pep Guardiola's first choice.Trafford, who has been linked with a move away from the Etihad this summer, said: I don't think there has been a goalie start for any of the top nations that isn’t a number one at the club, so going off history, I'd say, yeah. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say Asked whether it could mean he explores his options, Trafford said: You never know. Whether I move, whether I don't move, I do what's right for me and my career.The youngster did win the Carabao Cup and the FA Cup this season, playing in goal throughout the competition.Trafford continued: It's obviously been very challenging the past season, but looking back, I've learned so much, I've developed so much.I thought I'd had a lot of experiences up to this point in my career, but this was a new experience for me in everything. It was obviously very tough.LATEST SPORTS NEWSWho is Vozinha? Cape Verde's legendary 40-year-old goalkeeper who kept Spain at bayWorld Cup 2026 day five: Cape Verde draw 0-0 with Spain in huge upset, Egypt lead against BelgiumEmma Raducanu withdraws from tournament hours after losing Queen's finalSome days were harder than others, but the one thing I wanted to keep doing was keep winning the day and just improving every day, and because I kept doing that, I came out of the season having played a part in winning the two trophies.It was a very challenging season, but I learned a lot for myself and for going forward in my career.The England team has reportedly been leaked ahead of the Three Lions' opening contest against Croatia.Anthony Gordon is poised to start England's World Cup opener against Croatia, with Tuchel considering a tactical approach that could see Marcus Rashford deployed from the bench.The England boss is putting the finishing touches to his plans ahead of Wednesday's crucial Group Stage clash and appears to be weighing up how best to use two of his most dangerous attacking players.Rather than viewing Gordon and Rashford as rivals for a single position, Tuchel reportedly sees both as important weapons at different stages of a match.Gordon's work rate, discipline and ability to maintain team structure are qualities highly valued by the German coach, according to the Daily Mail, particularly in the early stages of games when England are looking to establish control.The winger's willingness to track back and maintain width has strengthened his case to start on the left flank.Rashford, meanwhile, offers a different profile.The forward's pace and ability to produce decisive moments in one-on-one situations make him an attractive option later in matches, especially against tiring opponents.Should Gordon be selected from the start, it would not necessarily be viewed internally as a reflection on Rashford's standing within the squad.Instead, Tuchel is believed to be encouraging players to view selection across the full 90 minutes, particularly given the significant impact substitutes can have in modern football. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter