Gianluigi Donnarumma faces Man City suspension in new James Trafford twist
James Trafford could soon be handed a boost in his pursuit of the number one shirt at Man City as Gianluigi Donnarumma is close to being suspended.
The 26-year-old has received four yellow cards this season, and should he pick up another in the next four games, he will be handed a one-game suspension.
Meanwhile, Trafford is believed to be frustrated at Man City after being made to wait in the wings following the Italy international’s arrival.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, City plan to keep Trafford at the club in January in case Donnarumma suffers an injury or suspension which would see the England goalkeeper thrust into the starting XI.
With a potential suspension now looming over the Italy international, Man City‘s backup option may be given the chance to stake his claim for a more regular role.
James Trafford could be handed Man City lifeline
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider on 20 November that Man City could let Trafford leave if he pushes for a move away.
Amid interest from the likes of Newcastle, Aston Villa and Tottenham, the goalkeeper is keen to play more regular football ahead of next summer’s World Cup.
While his lack of playing time has led to suggestions he could leave Man City, he may soon stumble upon the opportunity to show Pep Guardiola what he is missing.
Speaking on the Inside Track podcast, I explained: “Yeah, I think obviously Trafford’s not happy at the minute because he’s playing second fiddle to Gianluigi Donnarumma.
“I just don’t see City letting him go in January despite the player being unhappy and wanting to play.
“City won’t to weaken their squad in January and leave themselves short in that goalkeeping department especially if something was to happen to Donnarumma, an injury or a suspension.
“He’s not far off a suspension right now, he’s got four yellow cards so Trafford might get an opportunity in this upcoming busy festive period.
“Trafford obviously is frustrated with his lack of game time, but I don’t see City being willing to let him go.”
Man City’s stance on Trafford exit revealed
Football Insider revealed on 5 December that Man City are unlikely to let Trafford leave in January and instead see him as a valuable part of their squad.
Guardiola has no plans to weaken his squad mid-way through the season and is unlikely to sanction Trafford’s departure as he may be called upon to play.
This comes after Football Insider revealed Guardiola is reluctant to let Trafford leave mid-way through the season as there is still hope for his long-term role.
That has done little to ease the growing speculation about his future, however, as Newcastle and Spurs are keeping a close eye on his situation.
Meanwhile, Football Insider exclusively revealed on 16 November that Aston Villa could step up their move for Trafford amid concerns about Emi Martinez’s future.
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