In a surprising move, sources have revealed that England international Kyle Walker is set to join Italian giants AC Milan on loan from Manchester City. The experienced right-back, who has been a key figure in City’s recent dominance of English football, will swap the Etihad Stadium for the San Siro until the end of the current campaign.
City and Milan Reach Agreement
Talks between the two clubs have progressed quickly, with an agreement now in place for the 34-year-old to make the temporary switch to Italy. The deal includes an option for Milan to make the move permanent in the summer, although there is no obligation for them to do so. Walker’s current contract with Manchester City runs until 2026.
The former Tottenham Hotspur man is expected to arrive in Milan on Thursday to finalize the transfer and link up with his new teammates. His departure leaves City light on options at right-back, with Pep Guardiola now likely to rely on the versatile Rico Lewis or midfielder Matheus Nunes to fill the void.
End of an Era at the Etihad
Walker’s exit brings an end to a hugely successful spell at Manchester City, where he has won a host of major honors since joining from Spurs in 2017. The pacy defender has played a crucial role in six Premier League title triumphs, while also helping Guardiola’s side secure their first ever UEFA Champions League crown last season.
However, the arrival of Abdukodir Khusanov from Lens and Vitor Reis from Palmeiras earlier this month hinted that Walker’s time at the club may be coming to an end. The veteran has not featured for City since the 4-1 win over West Ham on January 4th, having informed director of football Txiki Begiristain of his desire to seek a new challenge.
“Kyle has been a phenomenal servant to this club and he leaves with our gratitude and best wishes. His desire to continue playing at the highest level is a testament to his character and professionalism.”
Pep Guardiola on Kyle Walker’s departure
Milan Bolster Defensive Options
For Milan, securing the services of a player of Walker’s pedigree and experience is a significant coup. The Rossoneri have endured an inconsistent campaign and currently sit fifth in the Serie A table, 15 points adrift of leaders Napoli. Coach Stefano Pioli will hope that Walker’s arrival can help shore up a defense that has looked vulnerable at times this season.
Walker’s move to the San Siro also ends any chance of Marcus Rashford making the same switch. The Manchester United forward had been linked with a move to Milan in recent weeks, but Serie A rules around the signing of non-EU players mean that the Italian club have now filled their quota in that regard.
A New Challenge Awaits
For Walker, the opportunity to test himself in one of Europe’s top leagues and with one of its most prestigious clubs is sure to be an enticing prospect. The 34-year-old has achieved virtually everything there is to achieve in English football, and a spell in Italy represents a new challenge at this late stage of his career.
If he can help Milan secure a top-four finish and Champions League qualification, then his loan spell will be deemed a success. And with the option of a permanent move on the table, there is every chance that Walker’s time at the Etihad has come to an end as he embarks on a new chapter in his illustrious career.
- Key Points:
- Kyle Walker set to join AC Milan on loan from Manchester City
- Deal includes option for permanent move, Walker under contract at City until 2026
- Defender has not played for City since early January after informing club of desire to leave
- Walker has won 6 Premier League titles and Champions League during time at Etihad
- Move to Milan ends any chance of Marcus Rashford making same switch
