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James Trafford

James Trafford is an English professional footballer who plays as a goalkeeper for Manchester City and the England national team.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

James Trafford is an English professional footballer who plays as a goalkeeper for Manchester City and the England national team. Born in 2002, he came through the youth systems at Cockermouth, Carlisle United and Manchester City before gaining first-team experience on loan at Bolton Wanderers and Burnley. He is noted for his height, shot-stopping and his performances for England under-21s at the 2023 UEFA European Under-21 Championship.

Early life and youth career

Trafford was born in Greysouthen, England, and grew up in Cumbria. He played grassroots football at Cockermouth, was identified by Carlisle United, and joined Manchester City as a youth player.

Club career

He developed within Manchester City's academy system and later moved into senior football through loan spells. His senior experience includes time at Bolton Wanderers and Burnley, before returning to Manchester City.

International career

Trafford has represented England at multiple youth levels and was included in the senior national-team setup. He gained wider recognition after England's 2023 UEFA European Under-21 Championship victory.

Style and recognition

Trafford is a tall, right-footed goalkeeper known for his physical presence and goalkeeping performances. He has been recognized for strong form in youth and senior competitions.

Key facts

  • Trafford is a goalkeeper who plays for Manchester City in the Premier League.
  • He was born in Greysouthen, Cumbria, and began playing football with Cockermouth before joining Carlisle United and later Manchester City.
  • He has represented England at youth levels and has been part of the senior England squad.
  • He spent loan spells at Bolton Wanderers and Burnley to gain first-team experience.
  • He was a key figure in England's run to the 2023 UEFA European Under-21 Championship title.

Frequently asked questions

Who is James Trafford?
James Trafford is an English professional football goalkeeper for Manchester City and the England national team.
When was James Trafford born?
He was born on 10 October 2002.
Where is James Trafford from?
He was born in Greysouthen, England, in Cumbria.
What position does James Trafford play?
He plays as a goalkeeper.
Which clubs has James Trafford played for?
His career has included Manchester City, Bolton Wanderers and Burnley, with early development at Cockermouth and Carlisle United.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Trafford
    Supports: Basic biographical details including full name, birth date and role as a goalkeeper.
  2. England Football — https://learn.englandfootball.com/sitecore/content/EnglandFootball/Home/england/mens-senior-team/squad/James-Trafford
    Supports: Birth date, place of birth, height, preferred foot, current club and international involvement.
  3. ESPN — https://www.espn.com/soccer/player/_/id/307118/james-trafford
    Supports: Current club, position, height and date of birth.
  4. Soccerbase — https://www.soccerbase.com/players/player.sd?player_id=133490
    Supports: Club career details, height and place of birth.