Kyle Walker has opened up about the challenging conversation he had with Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola before finalizing his loan switch to AC Milan.
Earlier this month, Guardiola confirmed that Walker had expressed his desire to leave the club and pursue a new opportunity abroad, marking the end of a turbulent period for the England defender.
The 34-year-old had faced criticism for his performances during a difficult first half of the season, prompting him to seek a fresh start. Milan secured Walker on a loan deal with an option to make the transfer permanent in the summer for €5 million (£4.2 million).
With the move, it seems increasingly likely that Walker has played his last game for City, where he made 319 appearances and collected a glittering array of trophies, including six Premier League titles and the 2022-23 Champions League.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Walker reflected on his departure and the difficult conversation he had with Guardiola.
“When I sat down with Pep, it wasn’t the easiest discussion – mainly because of the respect we have for one another,” Walker admitted. “What he’s achieved at City, I’ve been fortunate enough to be a part of. I’d like to think he recognizes the value I brought, not just on the pitch but in the dressing room, too.”
Walker expressed gratitude for his time at Manchester City, calling it his “family” and praising the bond he shared with everyone, from staff to teammates. However, the lack of game time made his decision to leave unavoidable.
“I wasn’t playing as much as I wanted, and things just weren’t clicking,” Walker said. “I’ve always been someone who wants to contribute fully, and it felt like the right time for a new challenge. Hopefully, I can get back to playing regularly here.”
The defender revealed that a “gut feeling” convinced him to join the Rossoneri, especially given their stature as five-time European champions.
“I could’ve stayed at City and honored my contract if they hadn’t agreed to let me go – that’s just who I am,” Walker explained. “But sometimes, you need to trust your instincts. I’ve spoken to so many players who regret never moving abroad, and I didn’t want to be one of them.
“If it wasn’t a club like Milan, I wouldn’t have left City. But there are certain opportunities you just can’t turn down.”
Now part of a growing English contingent at Milan, Walker joins fellow countrymen Fikayo Tomori, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, and Tammy Abraham.
Though he won’t be eligible to feature in Milan’s midweek Champions League clash against Dinamo Zagreb, Walker is expected to make his debut in Sunday’s heated derby against Inter Milan.
