I left Man City for my mental wellbeing - Trafford
Goalkeeper James Trafford discusses his decision to leave Manchester City for Leeds United, citing the negative impact of limited playing time on his mental wellbeing. Trafford emphasizes the necessity of regular competition for his professional development and personal health.
Why it matters
The story highlights the growing focus on athlete mental health and the professional pressures faced by young players in elite sports environments.
Figure caption, 'I had to play regularly for my mental wellbeing' - Trafford
James Trafford says not playing for Manchester City last season was "horrendous" before he moved to Leeds United in the summer in search of first-team football.
City re-signed academy graduate Trafford in July 2025, two years after he had left the club to join Championship side Burnley.
But less than six weeks after his arrival, Italy international Gianluigi Donnarumma arrived from Paris St-Germain.
The 27-year-old, who helped the French club win the Champions League just weeks earlier, immediately became City's first-choice goalkeeper, leaving Trafford short of playing time.
After starting the first three matches of the campaign, 24-year-old Trafford made just one further Premier League start in the 35 games that followed Donnarumma's arrival.
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