Kyle Walker exit: ‘Man City star in for rude awakening’ after ‘desperate’ update
Man City right-back Kyle Walker could be in for bitter disappointment in his pursuit of 100 England caps after the latest update.
The England international was left out of the City squad for their 8-0 victory over Salford City in the FA Cup.
Pep Guardiola confirmed that Walker wants to “explore options to play abroad at the end of his career,” suggesting a move away from the Etihad [Sky Sports].
Some supporters have branded Walker a “disgrace” for wanting to leave mid-season, but interest from clubs abroad remains. It seems the 34-year-old is still eager to compete at an elite level despite his recent form but will certainly face an issue.
Kyle Walker will regret leaving Man City
According to Sky Sports reporter Rob Dorsett, Walker will only move to an “elite club” because “he is confident he has 2-3 years left at the top-level”. He is said to be “desperate” to reach a century of caps for the national team.
At 34, Walker is competing against younger, more consistent right-backs like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Tino Livramento for a place in the England squad, while Reece James surely has the inside track with new Three Lions boss and former Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel if he can stay fit.
A move to a less competitive league, like Saudi Arabia, could end his hopes of reaching 100 caps so his reasoning is slightly understandable.
But there’s no guarantee even if he moves he’ll have a higher chance for his England caps. It’s likely it’ll even decrease his chances if he doesn’t hit the ground running.
Even with City looking to replace him, Walker’s best chance to remain at the elite level is to improve his form and continue playing for the current Premier League champions.
If he moves to another club, especially one outside of Europe’s top leagues, it’s unlikely he’ll maintain his position in the England squad or compete at the highest level, while there are obvious doubts that he has the ability wherever he plays.
For now, staying at City might give him the best opportunity to reach his goals both internationally and domestically, but on recent evidence the prospect of Walker being anywhere close to his best in three year’s time looks very optimistic.
In other news, Man City have set their sights on signing in this position in the January transfer window.
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