Kyle Walker has been an integral part of Manchester City’s dominance in recent years. The right-back joined the Mancunian club from Tottenham Hotspur in 2017 and has since cemented his place amongst the best full-backs in the world. Even at 33 years old, Walker is still a key player in the Pep Guardiola setup at City.
On the verge of completing seven years at Manchester City, Walker is rumored to be exploring a potential move to the Saudi Pro League. As reported by The Sun Football, Walker has been in contact with Riyad Mahrez, who himself left City for Saudi club, Al-Ahli in 2023. This could possibly present the last opportunity for a big money move in Kyle Walker’s career.
CHAMPIONS OF EUROPE
Words cannot describe this feeling. My dream since I was a child growing up finally achieved. Thank you everyone 🏆🏆🏆 pic.twitter.com/UO4uFza7sb
— Kyle Walker (@kylewalker2) June 11, 2023
With the UEFA Euros round the corner in the summer, Walker would like to settle the discussions about the move swiftly. It is still unclear as to which clubs are potentially lining up a move for the full-back. However, if he does indeed decide to leave City, the list of suitors would not be short from the Middle East for Kyle Walker.
Kyle Walker’s illustrious career at Manchester City so far
Pep Guardiola displayed great faith in bringing Kyle Walker for a hefty fee from Tottenham in 2017. Walker has ensured that he has repaid that trust with his consistently splendid performances. Renowned for his speed and athleticism, Walker has been a regular in the different formations tested by the Manchester City manager.
Catch me if you can ⚡️ @ManCity‘s Kyle Walker was the quickest player in the #PL last season 🏃 pic.twitter.com/H8rmh9GxkW
— Premier League (@premierleague) June 25, 2023
The 33-year-old has won five Premier Leagues, one UEFA Champions League, two FA Cups, and four League Cups amongst other accolades so far at the Etihad. During this time, Walker has found the back of the net six times. He is well respected and regarded amongst his peers and teammates as one of the strongest defenders on the planet.
Injuries have plagued Walker’s recent campaigns with City. Entering the twilight phase of his career, Walker is understandably looking at options for his future in soccer. His wife, Annie Kilner, is also reportedly keen on considering a shift to the Saudi Pro League. The right-back would be another addition to the growing list of stars leaving Europe for Saudi Arabia, if a move does eventually materialize.
Bayern Munich almost acquired Kyle Walker from Manchester City in 2023
Following a marvelous treble season with Manchester City, Walker was close to joining Bayern Munich in 2023. During the summer transfer window, Thomas Tuchel was eager to add the England international to his squad. Bayern were looking to take advantage of his unresolved contract situation which was set to expire in 2024.
Kyle Walker signs new deal until June 2026 at Manchester City — set to be announced soon 🔵✍🏻 #MCFC
“Bayern? Decisions can be made, things can turn. It was close yes, but in football things can happen. It wasn’t meant to be”, told BBC. pic.twitter.com/vAryglu7fF
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 3, 2023
Manchester City, however, would come out to be successful in their attempt to convince Kyle Walker to extend his stay at the club. He signed a two-year extension with City and pledged his future to the club. The defending Premier League champions would be glad with the outcome considering Walker’s role so far in the title race in England.