Pep Guardiola confirms Manchester City superstar has "asked to explore the options to play abroad and end his career"
Manchester City defender Kyle Walker has informed manager Pep Guardiola of his desire to leave the club and finish his career abroad. This revelation marks a significant development in the veteran fullback’s illustrious six-year stint at the Etihad Stadium.
Here's what Guardiola said (via Fabrizio Romano):
"Two days ago, Kyle asked to explore the options to play abroad and end his career."
While Guardiola did not elaborate on potential destinations, rumors suggest that a move to the Saudi Pro League could be on the horizon for the 34-year-old.
Walker’s request comes during a season of change and challenges for Manchester City. The reigning Premier League champions have endured a lackluster first half of the 2024025 campaign, and Walker himself has experienced reduced playing time.
His last start came during City’s 2-1 derby defeat to Manchester United on December 15. He was notably absent from the Manchester City squad that beat Salford City 8-0 in the FA Cup third round on Saturday.
The decision to omit Walker from the matchday lineup was officially attributed to "tactical" reasons, according to The Times reporter Paul Hirst.
Guardiola later clarified that the omission was influenced by the emergence of younger players like Rico Lewis, who impressed during a breakthrough season. He also mentioned tactical shifts involving other defenders such as Josko Gvardiol and Manuel Akanji as reasons to not include Walker. In the FA Cup tie, Guardiola even deployed midfielder Matheus Nunes at right-back, further underscoring Walker’s diminishing role.
The Englishman's form has dipped this season, coinciding with City’s transitional phase. The club have been strongly linked with defensive reinforcements, including Abdukodir Khusanov from RC Lens and Palmeiras teenager Vitor Reis. Both are centre-backs, but their arrivals could lead to further positional adjustments that reduce Walker’s opportunities on the right side of the defense.
Despite the uncertainty, Walker’s contribution to Manchester City cannot be overstated. Since joining from Tottenham Hotspur in 2017 for £50 million, he has been a key figure in Guardiola’s system. He's helped the team secure six Premier League titles and a historic Champions League victory in 2023, among other honors. His pace, versatility, and leadership have been vital to the club’s dominance in recent years.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola comments on rumors linking Walker to a move to Saudi Pro League
As Manchester City embarks on a squad rebuild to rejuvenate their roster, Walker appears to be contemplating a new chapter. While the former Barcelona manager has not explicitly ruled out his departure, he acknowledged the changes in the fullback's role.
When asked to comment on rumors linking Kyle Walker to the Saudi Pro League, Guardiola said (via GOAL):
"Maybe he’s not playing the minutes like he played in the past. Rico Lewis is playing really well, and of course the central defenders and Josko [Gvardiol]. I decide for that."
Walker’s potential move to the Saudi Pro League would align with a broader trend of high-profile players seeking lucrative opportunities in the region.
As the January transfer window progresses, all eyes will be on Manchester City and the England international to see whether this iconic partnership reaches its conclusion. For now, his legacy at the Etihad remains secure, but his next move may signal the final act of a remarkable career.
