Kyle Walker Sent Packing: England Veteran Set for Manchester City Return as AC Milan Declines £4m Option

Kyle Walker’s brief tenure at AC Milan appears to be concluding, as the Serie A club has reportedly decided against exercising their £4.2 million option to make his loan move permanent. The 34-year-old England international, who joined Milan on loan from Manchester City in January, is now poised to return to the Etihad Stadium at the end of the season.

Walker, a seasoned right-back with 95 England caps, was part of Manchester City’s historic treble-winning squad in 2023. However, he found himself out of favor under Pep Guardiola earlier this season, leading to his loan move to Milan. Despite initial optimism, Walker’s time in Italy has been underwhelming, with reports suggesting a decline in form and limited impact on the pitch.

AC Milan’s decision not to retain Walker may also be influenced by financial considerations. The club’s slim chances of European qualification could impact their transfer budget, making the £4.2 million fee for Walker less justifiable. Additionally, Milan had the option to sign only one non-EU player during the January transfer window, ultimately choosing Walker over other potential targets.

Walker’s return to Manchester City raises questions about his future at the club. With City reportedly eyeing Newcastle’s Tino Livramento as a potential replacement at right-back, Walker’s role upon his return remains uncertain. Nonetheless, his experience and leadership could still be valuable assets for Guardiola’s squad as they navigate the challenges of the upcoming season.

As Walker prepares to rejoin Manchester City, fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see whether the veteran defender can reclaim his place in the team or if this marks the beginning of a new chapter elsewhere.