Competition will be fierce in goal for Manchester City next season
James Trafford and Ederson will compete to be the number one keeper at Manchester City.
David Ornstein has reported for The Athletic that Ederson is set to remain at Manchester City for next season. Furthermore, Ornstein reports that Stefan Ortega is expected to leave City this summer. David Ornstein also reports that James Trafford will re-sign for City in a £27 million deal from Burnley. The young goalkeeper will also sign a 5 year contract with the club. Trafford's deal will also include an option of a one-year extension.
What is clear is that James Trafford isn't returning to Manchester City to be a reserve goalkeeper. Trafford is a highly motivated individual who has previously spoken of his goal to become Manchester City's number-one goalkeeper. To accomplish that goal Trafford will have to take Ederson's place as City's first-choice keeper. Trafford is definitely capable of doing exactly that. He has the skill in possession required to start at City and is an exceptional shot stopper. If Trafford can return to City and take Ederson's position it will be cause he has earned it. James Trafford's return could also give Ederson the competition he needs to keep his place.
Ideally, James Trafford and Ederson will compete for the starting spot in goal for Manchester City. To keep his spot, Ederson will have to perform at his best to keep the threat of James Trafford taking his position at bay. If the Brazilian international is below his best he will lose his spot to the young English keeper. That's the reality of the competition in goal that exists at Manchester City. But that should spur Ederson on to be at his best next season. Who becomes City's first-choice keeper next season will be a story to monitor throughout the 25/26 season.
James Trafford's imminent return to Manchester City is an exciting prospect. He has long appeared destined to one day take the mantle as City's number-one goalkeeper. To do that he will have to take Ederson's place. That's the challenge in front of the English keeper when he returns to the Etihad.
The fact that competition to start in goal for City will be so fierce is a positive for Pep Guardiola's side. In a season where City will be bidding to return to the top of the Premier League the entire squad will have to fight it out for places in City's starting eleven. Perhaps the fight for goalkeeping position is the best example of this.
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