Pep Guardiola has confirmed that captain Kyle Walker has asked to leave Manchester City.
Walker was left out of City's squad for the 8–0 win over Salford City in the FA Cup third round, with youngsters Jahmai Simpson-Pusey and Nico O'Reilly starting at centre-back, while Matheus Nunes played at right-back. .
The 34-year-old has had a difficult season and has come in for a lot of criticism as City's Premier League title defense has crumbled.
Walker saw his playing time reduced in the 2024/25 season, making just nine starts in 15 Premier League appearances, with Rico favoring Lewis at right-back in recent weeks.
Walker, who is under contract until the end of 2025/26, was on the verge of joining Bayern Munich in 2023 but ultimately handed over his future to City.
However, rumors continue to swirl over his future, with Milan, along with clubs from the Saudi Pro League and MLS, reportedly interested in the experienced England international.
Asked about Walker's absence after Saturday's match, Guardiola told reporters: “Two days ago, Kyle asked to explore the options of playing abroad and ending his career. And for that reason I preferred playing against other players .
“He asked after the treble two years ago if Bayern Munich wanted him, but the offer was not good enough.
“In his mind he would like to explore it, to go to another country to play in the last few years, for many reasons. For that reason I prefer to play against other players whose thoughts are here.”
Walker has won 17 trophies, including six Premier League titles and the Champions League, since joining from Tottenham in 2017.
Guardiola paid tribute to his legacy at the Etihad Stadium, saying: “We cannot understand the success we have had these years without Kyle. It is impossible.
“Having a right-back like him gave us something we didn't have, and he was great. But he said he wanted to explore it with all his heart.
“I respect him a lot because I am more than grateful to him as he has been with us for many years. He has been important for the national team and important for our team.”
Comments