Kyle Walker Requests Transfer from Manchester City, Guardiola Confirms

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola revealed on Saturday that defender Kyle Walker has requested to explore transfer options, potentially paving the way for his departure during the January transfer window. Walker, 34, was notably absent from City’s 8-0 FA Cup third-round victory over Salford City at the Etihad Stadium.

Guardiola disclosed that Walker approached him two days prior to the match, expressing his desire to play abroad in the final years of his career. “He 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 I think wanted him, but the offer was not good enough.”

The England international has struggled for form this season, failing to start in City’s last four matches and not taking the captain’s armband when substituted in recent games. Guardiola emphasized Walker’s importance to the team’s success over the years, stating, “You cannot understand the success we have had these years without Kyle. It’s impossible.”

Despite his contributions, Guardiola suggested that Walker no longer feels he can perform at his peak level at City. “Maybe I am wrong, but still I am pretty convinced that there is not one person in our jobs, whatever job, that doesn’t want to be where they can’t perform or be what they want to be,” he said.

Walker joined Manchester City from Tottenham Hotspur in 2017 and has since won six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and one Champions League. His potential departure marks a significant shift for a player who has been a cornerstone of City’s defense. Guardiola acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Walker’s future, stating, “He asked just to explore, it doesn’t mean it is going to happen because you never know.”

Walker’s request comes after previous interest from Bayern Munich in 2023 and Saudi Arabian clubs last summer. Guardiola expressed respect for Walker’s decision, saying, “I respect him a lot because I am more than grateful for what he has done for us.”

As the January transfer window progresses, Walker’s next move remains uncertain, but his desire to explore opportunities abroad signals a potential end to his storied tenure at Manchester City.