Manchester City defeated Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final thanks to Nico O’Reilly’s goals, but James Trafford’s contributions were equally important.
It was Arsenal who had the first chance of the Carabao Cup final, with Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka both getting shots on goal.
James Trafford made an initial save and he was required to intervene twice more in order to keep Man City on level terms with their opponent.
This ultimately gave them the platform to go on and win the match in the second half and without the shot-stopper, there is no guarantee City would have triumphed.
James Trafford heaps praise on Manchester City
Trafford has not had an easy season since he re-joined Man City, but he was delighted to start the Carabao Cup final and play an important role.
“Yeah it was obviously big saves because they happened quite early on in the game, but I can’t really remember them because they were quite quick,” the goalkeeper told Sky Sports.
“But yeah, I’m just happy to play my part in it, and then Nico [O’Reilly] scored two, which is brilliant from him.
“This moment, means a lot to me. Four or five years ago when they beat Spurs to win it, I think I was fourth or fifth choice, and I always imagined that I would win it won day.
“It’s an incredibly good season, because all my family and friends are here, and it’s a long way from north-west Cumbria.”
"This moment means a lot to me… I always imagined that I'd win it one day"
— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) March 22, 2026
"It's not been easy… it's a testament to myself" 🥹
James Trafford on a memorable Carabao Cup win for Manchester City. pic.twitter.com/fZAjiPPFe9
Commenting on Guardiola’s decision to start him in the final, Trafford continued: “Yeah, it means a lot to have his faith, and it’s a testament to how I believed in myself, and how I acted in training, when I’ve been brought in for club games. Every time that I play I just give it my best shot.”
When Trafford was asked about competing with Gianluigi Donnarumma, he added: “No illusions, it hasn’t been easy at all. It’s been really tough at times, but I have a really good set of people around me.
“My teammates and my coaches have been brilliant. They have kept me going, and given me individual goals. It’s down to them.”
Trafford will be hoping to start more matches for Man City
Donnarumma is obviously an exceptional goalkeeper. The Italian won the Champions League last season, so his CV speaks for itself.
However, Trafford has proved how good he can be for Man City, which clearly includes the biggest moments.
It would be good to see him given more minutes and Guardiola is highly likely to play him against Liverpool in the FA Cup quarter-finals next month.
