Rodri reacts as James Trafford sends first message after Leeds United debut

Rodri seems excited for his former Manchester City teammate James Trafford after his first appearances for Leeds United.

The goalkeeper made his debut for the Whites in the friendly against Manchester United in Croke Park on 12 August.

With the game going to a penalty shootout, Alex Cairns was in goal for the second half as the Red Devils got the win.

Trafford lasted 45 minutes against Manchester United after being given a start by Daniel Farke.

The 23-year-old has only recently returned to training, having been on an extended break after the 2026 World Cup campaign with England.

While the Englishman wasn't the first-choice goalkeeper at the Etihad Stadium, he did win the FA Cup and Carabao Cup before opting for a new adventure in West Yorkshire.

What James Trafford had to say after debut in Manchester United vs Leeds

Leeds signed Trafford for £45million from Man City and he was eager to play against Man United.

The shot-stopper put in a decent performance during the first half at Croke Park, showcasing his qualities early on.

After the game, Trafford took to Instagram to send a message to the West Yorkshire outfit's supporters, writing: "Great to see the fans tonight."

Rodri, who is being heavily linked with a move to Barcelona from Man City, reacted with clapping emojis.

The Spain international, who won the 2026 World Cup, seems to have a close relationship with the Whites' new goalkeeper.

Fellow former teammate Nico O'Reilly, meanwhile, posted: "They ain't ready".

Anton Stach, Ethan Ampadu, Joe Rodon and plenty of other Leeds players also 'liked' the post.

James Trafford game in numbers vs Manchester United

Joshua Zirkzee opened the scoring in the game after the Leeds defence was split apart and there wasn't much Trafford could have done about it.

Brenden Aaronson restored parity to the game at around the half-hour mark in Dublin.

The England international made three saves during his 45 minutes on the pitch, two coming from inside the box, as per Sofacore.

Trafford recorded one successful run-out and one high claim during his debut for the Whites.

The goalkeeper was comfortable with the ball at his feet, completing 81 per cent of his passes.

Farke has a talented prospect on his hands in the former Man City shot-stopper, and the Elland Road faithful surely have plenty to look forward to.