Kyle Walker has officially departed from Manchester City, joining AC Milan on an initial six-month loan. This arrangement comes with a significant option for the Serie A club to secure his services permanently at the conclusion of the summer transfer window. The move marks a notable transition for the 34-year-old defender, who has been a pivotal player for City since his arrival in 2017.
His last outing for Manchester City was during a commanding 4-1 victory over West Ham at the beginning of January. Walker’s request to leave came earlier in the month, indicating a desire for a new challenge. The club subsequently accepted AC Milan’s formal loan offer on Thursday, with the option to buy valued around £4.2 million (€5 million), according to reports from Sky in Italy.
During his time at the Etihad Stadium, Walker has been instrumental in helping City clinch an impressive tally of 17 trophies. These accomplishments include six Premier League titles and a UEFA Champions League victory, showcasing his contribution to the team’s domestic and European success. He initially joined City in a substantial £50 million deal from Tottenham Hotspur.
Despite speculation earlier in 2023 regarding a potential move to Bayern Munich following City’s treble triumph, Walker opted to sign a contract extension that would keep him at City until 2026. His departure, therefore, marks the end of an era, particularly after he played a crucial role as captain during the club’s historic achievement of securing four consecutive Premier League titles.
In total, Walker has made 319 appearances for Manchester City over a span of seven and a half seasons. He now joins AC Milan wearing the number 32 shirt, as the club sits eighth in Serie A. With potential Champions League aspirations, the team aims to solidify a position in the top ranks, currently lying sixth under the management of Sergio Conceicao.
In reflecting upon his time at City, Walker expressed deep gratitude towards the club’s management, particularly Pep Guardiola, who was pivotal in bringing him to Manchester back in 2017. He took to Instagram to share his heartfelt farewell, stating:
“Manchester City… where do I start? Signing for this incredible club in 2017 was a dream come true. Seven years later, winning 17 trophies, including the Champions League and the famous treble is something I could only have dreamt as a child.
“To play alongside so many top players has pushed me to be the best version of myself, and I’m truly grateful for the opportunity I’ve had at the Etihad. A huge thank you to so many people, the coaching staff, the kit men, and all the backroom staff who work tirelessly behind the scenes. You make every day enjoyable and provide the platform for us to perform at our best.
“To my team-mates, 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.
“To Pep Guardiola, thank you for believing in me and working so hard to bring me here in 2017. Together, we’ve celebrated 17 trophies, and your guidance has helped shape me into the player I am today. I’ll be forever grateful.
“To Annie, our children, and all my family who have been there and supported me on this journey—thank you.
“Most importantly, 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.
“I wish you all constant success going forward. Thank you.”
Walker’s exit from Manchester City represents a significant moment for both the player and the club. His legacy will undoubtedly be remembered fondly by the fans and his teammates, as he embarks on this new chapter in his footballing career with AC Milan.
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