Kyle Walker has asked to leave Manchester City, the club’s manager Pep Guardiola confirmed after Saturday’s 8-0 victory over Salford City in the FA Cup. The 34-year-old right-back was not included in City’s squad for the third-round tie, with Guardiola explaining that Walker has wanted to “explore options abroad.”
“Two days ago, Kyle requested to look at options to play internationally and end his career. For that reason I prefer to play other players,” Guardiola said.
Bayern Munich had made an offer for Walker two years ago but it fell short. The 26-year-old England international joined City from Tottenham Hotspur in 2017 for £50 million and has made 319 appearances, winning 17 trophies including six Premier League titles and the club’s first Champions League.
“The success we have had these years, we can’t really understand without Kyle. “It’s impossible,” Guardiola said. “I have a lot of respect for him and am thankful for everything he’s done for us.”
Walker has struggled for game time this season, starting just nine league games. Although a potential switch to Saudi Arabia could be in the works, no agreement has been reached yet.
