Kyle Walker set to leave Manchester City after 8 years, with Milan and Saudi clubs closing in

Kyle Walker is set to leave Manchester City after 8 years. (kylewalker2/Twitter pic)

Manchester City’s captain, Kyle Walker, is set to leave the club after 8 years, with the intention of ending his career somewhere else. Walker’s absence from City’s FA Cup clash against Salford prompted the reporters to enquire Pep Guardiola about the Englishman. The Spanish manager responded by dropping a bombshell.

“Two days ago, Kyle asked to explore the options to play abroad at the end of his career. In his [Walker's] mind, he would like to explore it, to go to another country, to play the last years [somewhere else] for many reasons. For that reason, I prefer playing other players whose mind is here,” said Guardiola in the post-match press conference on Saturday, according to Sky Sports.

Falling through the ranks

Kyle Walker has been a pivotal figure in Pep Guardiola’s success at Man City, since joining the club back in 2017. Walker’s pace, strength, and defensive awareness made him one of the best full-backs in the world. The Englishman has played a crucial role in helping City win 17 titles since 2017, including six Premier League titles and a Champions League title as well. In his press conference, Guardiola even expressed his gratitude towards Walker. The City boss stated, “We cannot understand the success we've had these years without Kyle. It's impossible”. Therefore, there is no doubt that Walker will depart as an absolute legend of the club.

While the decision might cause sadness to the fans, one cannot say it was unexpected. Kyle Walker’s season so far has been nothing short of a disappointment. The Englishman, who was once considered to be one of the best full-backs in the world, seems to be well past his glory days. Walker’s struggles this season have been a clear indication of that. His attacking and defending stats have dropped down significantly in comparison to last season. As a result, Guardiola has been forced to deploy Rico Lewis at the right-back position on multiple occasions. Therefore, a move away from Manchester appears to be the best solution for both Walker and City, allowing them to sign a new full-back in the future.

AC Milan to battle Saudi clubs for Walker

According to Fabrizio Romano, AC Milan are exploring a potential move for Kyle Walker. The reputed Italian journalist has informed that Milan have contacted City, enquiring about the Englishman’s conditions. Walker also has reportedly shown interest in this possible move. However, the Serie A giants would have to battle it out with Saudi clubs, namely Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, and Al-Ahli. Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr reportedly attempted to sign Kyle Walker last summer as well. While Milan’s move offers a chance to still play in the top competitions, Walker might consider leaving Europe altogether due to his deteriorating performance. In that case, a potential move to the Saudi Pro League might be the Englishman's best option.