I had to play regularly for my mental wellbeing - Trafford on summer move

What the report says

Leeds United goalkeeper James Trafford has spoken publicly about the difficulties he experienced at Manchester City last season, saying his summer move was driven in part by the need to play regularly for his mental wellbeing. The comments were reported by BBC Sport Football in an interview focused on his transfer and the reasons behind it.

According to the BBC’s coverage, Trafford linked his lack of regular first-team football at City with the decision to leave in the summer. The piece presents the move as a response to his personal need for consistent game time rather than purely a sporting choice, highlighting how player welfare can shape transfer decisions.

Trafford, who is also part of England men’s football discussion, is now with Leeds United. The article does not give full transfer details, but it situates his move within a wider conversation about the pressures young players can face at elite clubs and the impact of limited opportunities on confidence and wellbeing.

The report matters because it adds context to a summer transfer that may otherwise have looked routine, showing how mental health considerations can be central to a player’s career planning. BBC Sport framed the remarks as part of its Football Interview series.