Boss confirms Trafford will start in Carabao Cup final

In partnership with

Manchester City F.C.

·20 de marzo de 2026

Boss confirms Trafford will start in Carabao Cup final

Pep Guardiola has confirmed James Trafford will be in goal for Sunday’s Carabao Cup final against Arsenal.

The 23-year-old, who was included in England’s squad for the friendlies against Uruguay and Japan, has played in every round of the competition so far and impressed throughout.

OneFootball Videos

Now he will feature in his first major cup final as he looks to help the Blues secure our first silverware of the season.

Asked if Trafford will play, the boss said, “Yes. It’s a [big moment] for the team.

“Players have to be ready.”

Asked if he was happy with the goalkeeper’s attitude and application this campaign, the boss replied, “Beyond [happy], yeah.”

Pep was also asked about Erling Haaland, and confirmed he is looking good to face the Gunners on Sunday.

“I’m pretty sure he’s focused like all of us,” he said.

“I didn’t speak with him; we had two days off but I’m pretty sure he’s ready.”

Antoine Semenyo, like Trafford, is poised for his first major cup final.

The former Bournemouth forward has seven goals in 16 appearances for the Blues, including a crucial opener in the 2-0 semi-final win over Newcastle United.

His appearance in the Champions League meant he’d played in all four divisions in England as well as non-League to join a select club of players to achieved such a rare feat.

Guardiola says victory for his team could be a pivotal moment in their careers, particularly with many making their first appearance in a Wembley final.

“As I said with James [Trafford], for all of us [it is a big moment],” he said.

Exclusive City Video - free with Cityzens

Register to watch for free

Already have a Cityzens account? Sign in

Features

Watch: Every League Cup final under Pep Guardiola

“I remember the first Carabao Cup win. It was our first trophy but what’s next going better or worse, we win a trophy but it’s consistency and the main targets okay, do what we have to do every three days many times.

“Most impressive for me is how we are consistent for many years every three days and Arsenal do it, the consistency in the habits and what we have to do.

“This is the most difficult thing, you can win one title and then disappear, how the team works year by year being there.

“Of course we have disappointment, with Forest and West Ham and many things happen in the two games v Real Madrid - but still two months we have three competitions to be there, and we think of that.”