Doku’s Injury Update Drops a Bombshell as City Turn to Trafford in the EFL Cup Showdown
16 December 2025
Injury Update and Cup Clash Outlook
Spanish coach Pep Guardiola has revealed the expected lay-off for Jeremy Doku, Manchester City's dynamic winger, due to a lingering leg issue.
Guardiola confirmed on Tuesday that Doku will miss City's EFL Cup quarter-final against Brentford, adding that the Belgian forward is still in rehabilitation.
Doku had been one of City's most consistent performers this season, starting nine of the last ten matches before sitting out the win over Crystal Palace.
The manager also said the winger's return is unlikely before the new year, and he did not rule out him missing City's first game of 2026.
Guardiola said: "I don't know, maybe two or three weeks. I think he will miss the New Year's game and Sunderland... we will see."
Trafford’s Moment to Shine in a Cup Tie
The cup tie will offer James Trafford a rare starting opportunity against Brentford, giving the young keeper valuable minutes after Gianluigi Donnarumma's arrival altered the pecking order.
Trafford began the season as City's first-choice goalkeeper in the league after Ederson's departure, but Donnarumma's arrival reshaped priorities.
Despite talk of a January loan move to secure regular minutes, Guardiola has ruled out any mid-season departure for the young keeper.
The City boss was clear that Trafford will remain at the Etihad, praising his abilities and professionalism, while acknowledging the unique pressures facing a goalkeeper.
Guardiola added: "Certainly. I have no new information on this with the player or his agents. I've always said he is an amazing goalkeeper. Unfortunately, Gianluigi is the starter, but he is an amazing goalkeeper, so I know how important the position can be and how one game can change everything in a season. He is with us and will stay with us this season, and after that we'll see."
Punchline 1: If Doku's leg takes two more weeks to recover, City will need a map to locate their form—because even their stars go wandering sometimes.
Punchline 2: If Trafford makes another start, City might rename the stadium "Trafford-Field" — though only a clean sheet will get him on the marquee.
