Kyle Walker set for new challenge, seek Manchester City exit

Manchester City defender Kyle Walker has expressed his desire to leave the club and explore new opportunities overseas.

Walker, who joined City from Tottenham Hotspur in 2017, reportedly communicated his decision to manager Pep Guardiola. The 33-year-old was notably absent from the squad during City’s emphatic 8-0 victory over Salford City in the FA Cup on Saturday.

Speaking after the match, Guardiola confirmed the development, stating:

‘Two days ago Kyle asked to explore the options to play abroad at the end of his career,’ Guardiola said.

‘He asked two years ago after the Treble. Bayern Munich wanted him but the offer was not good enough.

‘I asked him, the club asked him, how important is this?

‘We cannot understand the success the club had these years without Kyle. It’s impossible. He gave us something we didn’t have and he’s been amazing.

‘But now in his mind he would like to explore to go to another country. For that reason, I prefer to play other players whose mind is here, that’s all.’

‘He went to the club,’ Guardiola added.

‘I’m pretty convinced that there is no one person in our job that doesn’t want to be where they are can perform.

‘He’s asking to explore [his options] so it may not happen, we don’t know, you never know. Explore the situation and I respect a lot. I am more than grateful what he has done for many years for us.

‘He arrived eight years ago with us and we start to win, win, win, win and he has been important for the national team and of course with our team.

‘But he has said he wants to explore in his mind and in his heart and wants to explore it. Honestly? I don’t know what is going to happen.’

Saudi clubs have indicated interest in the 34-year-old England international.