Manchester City captains make Gianluigi Donnarumma admission raising huge James Trafford doubts | OneFootball

Two members of Manchester City’s leadership group have piled on significant praise for the club’s new No.1 choice goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.

The Italian international arrived at the Etihad Stadium on transfer deadline day, stepping into one of the most scrutinised positions following Ederson’s departure, with the Brazilian joining Fenerbahce within the same space of 48 hours.

While many have long admired the shot-stopping ability of Donnarumma, his adaptation to Pep Guardiola’s possession-based system has been the subject of much debate since his arrival. Inside the dressing room, faith in the 26-year-old is already strong, however.

City’s captaincy group plays an important role in shaping the squad’s mentality, while the views of those in such a group also carry significant weight. Both Bernardo Silva and Rodri have been integral to successes, meaning their endorsement of Donnarumma suggests the new arrival has quickly gained trust.

The timing of such public backing is notable, too with Donnarumma’s arrival casting uncertainty over the pathway of James Trafford, who was handed opportunities early in the season but may soon face difficult decisions over his future.

The England international remains highly rated at the club and the investment in the shot-stopper proves that belief, yet the clear status of Donnarumma as Guardiola’s first choice could push Trafford toward a loan exit or even a permanent move further down the line.

Speaking during a new interview with Stadium Astro, Rodri and Bernardo Silva spoke with one another about Gianluigi Donnarumma, making a significant comparison to one of the world’s fellow best operators between the posts.

“To be honest, it’s the first game he played [and] I don’t know about you but I felt like they [Manchester United] must put the ball in the [top] corner to score [past him]. That was my feeling,” said Rodri.

Manchester City’s club captain Bernardo Silva responded, “With Gigi, the feeling you have is a bit [Thibaut] Courtois feeling, you know? He’s a tall guy, he’s a big guy.

“And you know, he’s still young, because he’s like 26, but he’s played at the highest level for so long. First game in a new club you always feel a bit… And you could see that he was comfortable with it, and it’s good to have a guy like that at the back!”

The comparison to Thibaut Courtois – widely considered one of the best – highlights the level of respect Donnarumma has already earned from teammates, also hinting at how City may view him as a long-term anchor in their defensive structure.

For Trafford, the challenge is now clear, while the upcoming January transfer window could be pivotal, with loan options likely to arise as he seeks to preserve his chances of representing England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In the meantime, manager Pep Guardiola will be reassured that his decision to recruit Gianluigi Donnarumma has already been validated by two of his most influential lieutenants.