Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola faces a key decision on his starting goalkeeper for Sunday’s derby against Manchester United, with new signing Gianluigi Donnarumma competing with James Trafford, who has started the first three games this season.
What’s the Goalkeeper Situation at City?
- Donnarumma joined from Paris Saint-Germain on transfer deadline day for £26m.
- Trafford and Stefan Ortega remain in the squad.
- Long-time number one Ederson was sold to Fenerbahce after eight trophy-filled years.
- Guardiola praised Ederson’s unique distribution skills but said Donnarumma brings different qualities and was not signed to replicate Ederson’s style.
What Has Guardiola Said About Donnarumma and Trafford?
- Donnarumma is “so tall” and “huge,” with proven performances on big stages.
- Guardiola acknowledged Donnarumma will concede goals but emphasized the need to manage that.
- Trafford is a City keeper, and while only one can start, “everyone will be involved” over the long season.
What About Manchester United’s Goalkeeper?
- United manager Ruben Amorim confirmed Altay Bayindir will start, with new signing Senne Lammens on the bench.
How Do Guardiola and Others View Strikers Haaland and Isak?
- Erling Haaland, fresh off scoring five goals for Norway, is regarded by Guardiola as “a little bit above” Liverpool’s new signing Alexander Isak.
- Guardiola praised Isak as exceptional but reaffirmed Haaland as the top striker he knows.
- Haaland recently reached 88 Premier League goals in 100 games, a record milestone.
What’s the Context for the Derby?
- City enter the 197th Manchester derby after two consecutive league defeats, sitting 13th in the table.
- United are one point ahead in ninth.
- Haaland stressed the need to improve and sees the derby as a perfect chance to turn things around.
.jpg)
.jpg)