Need to know
Pep Guardiola has made a bold selection call for Manchester City as they prepare to face Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final
James Trafford of Manchester City speaks to teammate Gianluigi Donnarumma during the warm up prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Manchester City and SSC Napoli at City of Manchester Stadium on September 18, 2025
James Trafford will start between the sticks instead of Gianluigi Donnarumma(Image: Getty Images)
Pep Guardiola's reason for starting James Trafford over Gianluigi Donnarumma in the Carabao Cup final
Cup Goalkeeper Policy: Pep Guardiola has maintained his long-standing tradition of starting his "cup goalkeeper" throughout the entirety of the domestic tournament. English youngster Trafford has played every minute of the Carabao Cup campaign and will be rewarded with the start in the final.
Trafford’s Standout Form: The back-up keeper hasn't just been a placeholder; he was named the Carabao Cup Player of the Round for his semi-final heroics. Guardiola noted that it would be "unfair" to drop a player who was instrumental in getting the team to Wembley.
Guardiola’s Public Backing: The City boss explicitly confirmed that Trafford would keep his place over the world-class Donnarumma. He stated: "James has been our keeper in this competition from the first day, and he deserves to play this final."
Tactical Consistency: Guardiola emphasised that he trusts Trafford's understanding of the team's defensive rhythm, specifically within the context of this tournament. He remarked that changing the "dynamic of the locker room" for a final can sometimes do more harm than good.
Donnarumma’s Professionalism: While naturally disappointed to miss a major final, Donnarumma has reportedly accepted the decision with total professionalism. Guardiola praised the Italian’s attitude, saying: "Gigio is a top professional and he knows the rules of the cup since he arrived."
Recent Heavy Workload: Donnarumma has been City's undisputed number one in the Premier League and Champions League, featuring in a gruelling round of 16 tie against Real Madrid just days ago. Resting him for the final ensures he remains fresh for the final stretch of the title race.
Distribution Comparison: While Pep has defended Donnarumma's passing in the past, he has noted that Trafford’s specific style suits Arsenal's high-pressing intensity. Guardiola mentioned that Trafford's composure under pressure was a deciding factor for this specific match-up.
Squad Harmony: By sticking with Trafford, Guardiola is reinforcing a merit-based culture within the City squad. He told reporters that "the strength of the group" relies on players knowing that if they perform well in a competition, they will see it through to the end.
Sky Sports discounted Premier League and EFL package
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Content Image
Content Image