Guardiola extremely pleased with James Trafford and verifies his starting role in EFL Cup final

The opening major honour of the 2025-26 campaign in English football awaits this Sunday afternoon, pitting Arsenal against City in a showdown at Wembley Stadium.

Arsenal remain undefeated across their prior six clashes with City, securing victory through penalties during the Community Shield back in August 2023, marking their most recent encounter at Wembley.

Nevertheless, Guardiola has claimed the EFL Cup four times before and stands poised to become the initial coach to secure it fivefold.

Trafford set to guard the goal

He began by addressing James Trafford, set to take the goalkeeper position over Gianluigi Donnarumma, following remarks about his frustration over limited appearances with the squad.

"It marks a significant occasion for the group."

"Positive. No further comments. Squad members may feel content or discontent; that is the reality. We must perform at our peak whenever possible, and later assess outcomes by season's close."

He further remarked that he feels "beyond" satisfied with Trafford's recent displays.

Might Arsenal secure the quadruple?

Arsenal lead the Premier League standings while competing in every tournament this term. Claiming the EFL Cup would enhance their prospects of achieving the quadruple.

Guardiola commended the North London outfit, who advanced to the Champions League quarter-finals this week by defeating Bayer Leverkusen.

"They dominate numerous elements and facets of play, and the drive from years without victories fosters that energy along with unity in various areas.

"They manage transitions during deep defence, concealment phases, construction from the back, extended passes, follow-up balls, and plenty more strengths.

"In the Champions League, they triumphed in all group fixtures and only tied with Leverkusen, making it a tough test to gauge our capabilities.

Their quadruple ambitions: "Absolutely for them, given their involvement in four competitions."