Manchester City captain Kyle Walker looks to be edging closer to a January exit from the Etihad Stadium.
The England international has played a major role in the success of Pep Guardiola’s side in recent seasons with a total of six Premier League titles and one UEFA Champions League crown since his arrival in Manchester in 2017.
However, the veteran defender has endured a controversial 12 months, with stark revelations about his private life making headline news in the UK as his on-pitch form suffered as a result.
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Guardiola confirmed after City’s 8-0 FA Cup win over Salford City on January 11 that Walker had spoken to the club and requested to ‘explore his options to play abroad’ with his current contract expiring at the end of the 2025/26 campaign.
Serie A rivals AC Milan and Inter Milan are rumoured to be the frontrunners to sign the 34-year-old, either on loan until the end of the season, or via a permanent deal.
Social media disagreement
Guardiola opted to leave Walker out of City’s travelling squad for their midweek 2-2 Premier League draw at Brentford with the full-back coming in for criticism over his actions.
“Kyle Walker’s behavior is completely unacceptable,” posted City_Chief. “As club captain, failing to show up for matches is a disgrace.
“If you want to leave, do it with respect—this is not the way.
“Your lack of commitment has been a major factor in this disappointing campaign.”
Kyle Walker’s behavior is completely unacceptable. As club captain, failing to show up for matches is a disgrace.
If you want to leave, do it with respect—this is not the way. Your lack of commitment has been a major factor in this disappointing campaign.
— City Chief (@City_Chief) January 14, 2025
Amid the rumours he refused to make the trip to the Gtech Community Stadium, Walker issued a firm rejection of the gossip, replying: “Failed to turn up? I can’t be at Brentford and at training at the same time.”
“You may need to check your sources.”
Failed to turn up?
I can’t be at Brentford and training at the same time. You may need to check your sources :blue_heart:— Kyle Walker (@kylewalker2) January 15, 2025
Kyle Walker transfer latest
Regardless of this, Walker’s immediate future remains unclear.
Guardiola is not expected to recall him into his plans until the matter is resolved and Walker may have already played his final game for City.
However, if an exit package is agreed, Guardiola could grant him a farewell appearance before the end of the month, given his massive contributions to the club.
MORE: Guardiola reveals what he said to Ortega and Gvardiol in post-Brentford tirade
