(Credit: Imago/Hasan Karim, Breaking Media)

Aasif Rahman

Thu 7 August 2025 18:01, UK

Man City outcast James McAtee responded to James Trafford’s latest message to supporters following his return to the club.

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Pep Guardiola’s side have had a busy summer as they look to bounce back from a disappointing third-place finish and a rare trophyless season last term.

There have been major departures, with both Kyle Walker and Kevin De Bruyne moving on, while other players including Jack Grealish and McAtee have also been linked with Man City exits.

In the midst of that upheaval, the club have brought in several fresh faces including Rayan Cherki, Rayan Ait Nouri and Tijjani Reijnders.

Most recently, Man City confirmed the return of James Trafford, who came through the City academy before spells away from the Etihad and a move to Burnley.

Following his comeback, Trafford shared a heartfelt message reflecting on his return to Manchester, earning plenty of reaction.

James Trafford’s 2024-25 stats (Credit: Imago)

The English goalkeeper completed a £27 million move back to City on 29 July, and after settling back into the squad, he shared a message reflecting on his return.

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Trafford posted several photos from his first training sessions alongside a short but heartfelt caption: “First week in blue” with blue heart emojis.

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Plenty of City stars showed their support, with likes from Reijnders, Nathan Ake and Oscar Bobb.

Meanwhile, McAtee — who came through the academy with Trafford — left a message in the comments, writing: “Back where you belong !!”

Newcastle United had also pushed to sign Trafford earlier in the window, even seeing an approach rejected after refusing to meet Burnley’s valuation, which allowed Man City to swoop in.

He enjoyed a standout campaign last season, keeping a record-breaking 29 clean sheets as Scott Parker’s Burnley secured automatic promotion back to the Premier League.

Now, he returns to City to provide competition for Ederson as Guardiola looks to reshape his side following a disappointing campaign.

McAtee could leave Man City (Imago)

While McAtee appears thrilled to see his former teammate return, he might not be sharing the pitch with him for long.

Football Insider revealed Man City are willing to cash in on McAtee if they receive an offer in the region of £30 million, with Nottingham Forest showing concrete interest.

Forest have already seen an opening bid turned down but are expected to return with an improved offer.
For more news relating to Newcastle United, visit our sister site NUFC Latest Live.