Kyle Walker has officially joined AC Milan on loan from Manchester City, marking the end of his remarkable tenure at the Etihad Stadium. Announced on January 24, 2025, the English defender's move is set for the remainder of the 2024/25 season and includes an option for Milan to make the deal permanent next summer.
Walker, who spent seven fruitful years at Manchester City, has become one of the most recognized defenders globally, amassing 17 major trophies, including six Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League. During his time at City, he earned immense respect as Pep Guardiola's preferred right-back, contributing significantly to the team’s rise to success.
Despite his storied career, Walker has faced tough competition for his spot this season. He played 15 matches for City, but his role diminished as the squad saw the emergence of younger talents like Rico Lewis. Guardiola later confirmed Walker's desire to leave following recent performances, signaling to the media, "Kyle expressed an interest after our FA Cup win against Salford City this month."
Although mentioning Walker's struggles on the field recently, Guardiola recognized his dedication, appreciating the memories they shared. "Kyle, thank you so much for the seven years you’ve been with us,” Guardiola expressed. "The amount of trophies, the consistency and being a very important figure."
After the news of his transfer broke, Walker took to social media to express gratitude for his experiences at City. He remarked, "Signing for this incredible club in 2017 was a dream come true. Seven years later, winning 17 trophies, including the Champions League, is something I could only have dreamed of as a child." His heartfelt sentiments continued as he thanked his teammates, coaches, and especially the fans for their unwavering support.
He added, "To my teammates, from the moment I walked through the door I felt at home. Thank you for the great memories and for all the success we have shared together. You are friends, but also family for life."
Interestingly, Walker's departure coincides with Milan's interest shown earlier toward other players, which could signal changes within their squad structure. Nevertheless, fans can expect him to bring veteran leadership and considerable skill as he dons the Rossoneri jersey, sporting the number 32.
This transition not only allows Walker to explore new challenges but also leaves Manchester City with gaps to fill. The former Spurs player had been pivotal during his stint, often described by teammates as one of the best defenders during his prime. His tackling prowess and ability to nullify some of Europe’s best attackers, such as Kylian Mbappé and Vinicius Junior, are widely acknowledged, increasing the stakes for Milan as they seek to utilize his experience.
The club, with its rich history and ambitious projects, presents Walker with the stage to showcase his abilities and contribute to Serie A. Milan has previously expressed interest in other key players, watching the ever-shifting dynamics of European football.
Looking to the future, awards may no longer be Walker’s primary focus due to ample accolades from City. Instead, his latest move could be aimed at maintaining performance levels necessary to remain influential at the international level, as he hunts for more caps with the England national team, where he has been capped 93 times.
Walker said, "Most of all, to the fans—thank you for embracing me as one of your own from day one. Your unwavering support, week in, week out, home and away, will never be forgotten."
Although parting ways may have taken some by surprise, this loan symbolizes continuity for Walker, providing him with opportunities at AC Milan to create new memories and chase new goals. The respect from both Guardiola and his teammates exemplifies the love the player cultivated at City, and the relationship he aims to build at AC Milan.
Now, his chapter at the Etihad fades, and another opens at the San Siro, positioning Walker to be at the heart of Milan’s ambitions this season—a potential final act of glory for the English defender seeking to make the most of the next phase of his career.