'It's been really tough' - James Trafford opens up on Man City return after Arsenal win

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Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford was one of the stars of the show as the Blues beat Arsenal 2-0 in the Carabao Cup final.

Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford admitted this season has not been easy for him but that the win against Arsenal meant a lot to him and his family. Pep Guardiola opted to start Trafford in the Carabao Cup final having trusted him throughout the competition.

Trafford instantly repaid the faith shown in him as he first denied Kai Havertz before blocking Bukayo Saka twice. After Trafford kept City on level terms in the first half, the Blues capitalised in the second 45 minutes. Kepa Arrizabalaga made a mess of Rayan Cherki's cross to allow Nico O'Reilly to head home.

Moments later, O'Reilly made it two as he headed Matheus Nunes' cross home. After the game, Trafford told Sky Sports: "Yeah, it was obviously big saves because they happened quite early on in the game, but I can’t really remember them because they were quite quick, but yeah, I’m just happy to play my part in it, and then Nico scored two, which is brilliant from him.

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"This moment means a lot to me. Four or five years ago when they beat Spurs to win it, I think I was fourth or fifth choice, and I always imagined that I would win it one day. It’s incredibly good, because all my family and friends are here, and it’s a long way from north-west Cumbria.

"Yeah, it means a lot to have his [Pep Guardiola's] faith, and it’s a testament to how I believed in myself, and how I acted in training, when I’ve been brought in for club games. Every time that I play I just give it my best shot.

"No illusions, it hasn’t been easy at all. It’s been really tough at times, but I have a really good set of people around me.

"My teammates and my coaches have been brilliant. They have kept me going and given me individual goals. It’s down to them."