Guardiola Supports Trafford After Spurs Defeat, Eyes Brighton Match

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola expressed his support for goalkeeper James Trafford following an error that contributed to the team’s 2-0 defeat against Tottenham Hotspur last weekend. Trafford’s misjudgment while playing out from the back allowed Richarlison to assist Joao Palhinha, who scored the second goal with a deflected shot, marking City’s first loss of the season.

Speaking to reporters on September 29, 2023, Guardiola emphasized that the mistake should not rest solely on Trafford’s shoulders. “Always we have arms around the shoulders,” he stated. “What happened doesn’t belong just to James in the second goal. He is a strong man and a huge personality. We are here to help them, no doubt about that.”

As Manchester City prepares for their upcoming match against Brighton & Hove Albion on October 1, 2023, Guardiola did not confirm whether Trafford would retain his starting position in goal. “I will decide on Saturday who will start in goal at Brighton,” he remarked, highlighting his focus on guiding the team toward their seventh Premier League title during his tenure.

Despite the setback against Tottenham, Guardiola remains optimistic about the season ahead. “After two games, I feel like we’re going to do a good season. I know that people maybe don’t believe it, despite what happened in the last game and maybe on Sunday,” he noted.

In addition to discussing Trafford, Guardiola provided an update on left back Rayan Ait-Nouri, who was substituted last weekend due to an ankle twist. The manager confirmed that Ait-Nouri is fit and available for selection in the upcoming match.

With the team aiming to bounce back from their defeat, all eyes will be on the starting lineup as Manchester City faces Brighton, seeking to regain momentum in their Premier League campaign.