Pep Guardiola has confirmed James Trafford will start for Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final against Tottenham at Wembley, but left the door open for the goalkeeper to leave the Etihad Stadium at season's end. Trafford had previously expressed dissatisfaction about being behind Gianluigi Donnarumma in the pecking order after returning from Burnley last summer.

Guardiola declined to comment specifically on Trafford's remarks about not expecting to find himself second choice, stating only that "players can be happy, unhappy. it is what it is." The City boss emphasized players must remain ready regardless of their happiness level, with decisions on futures to be made after the season concludes.

The Carabao Cup final could have broader implications for the Premier League title race, as City and Arsenal are scheduled to meet again at the Etihad in April. Guardiola remained uncertain about whether winning the cup would help City's title chances, noting that "we can win on Sunday and then be bad in the league." The veteran manager stressed the importance of players having the ability to forget results quickly and move forward.