Manchester City appear to be preparing for the end of an era as reports suggest they are willing to part ways with long-serving defender Kyle Walker for a cut-price fee of just £15 million in the summer of 2025. This news has sent shockwaves through the football community, as Walker has been an integral part of Pep Guardiola’s all-conquering City squad for several years, but it seems his time at the Etihad may be drawing to a close.
The 34-year-old right-back has enjoyed a glittering career since joining City from Tottenham Hotspur in 2017, but recent developments indicate that his role in the team has diminished. At the start of the 2024-25 season, Walker has found himself playing second fiddle to the emerging talent of Rico Lewis, who has been described by Guardiola as a “special talent.” While Walker’s influence on the pitch remains undeniable, the youth and versatility of Lewis have seen him eclipse the veteran defender in the pecking order.
Walker’s reduced role is evidenced by his lack of regular starts this season. Out of his seven appearances for Manchester City in all competitions, only four have been as a starter. Notably, Walker was left on the bench during key fixtures against Chelsea and Inter Milan, two matches where his experience and leadership would have been invaluable. As Guardiola continues to evolve his squad, there seems to be a growing consensus that Walker’s time at City may be nearing a natural conclusion. His exclusion from the starting lineup for the upcoming game against Wolverhampton Wanderers further reinforces this belief.
Walker’s potential exit has sparked considerable speculation regarding his future. In the summer of 2023, the England international was heavily linked with a move to Bayern Munich, with the German giants reportedly keen on securing his services. However, Walker chose to remain in Manchester, signing a new contract that runs until 2026. This decision was seen as a major coup for City, as Walker’s leadership, defensive solidity, and pace have been crucial components of their success. However, with his contract set to expire in two years and no discussions about an extension, City are reportedly keen to avoid letting him leave for free in 2026.
According to reports, City are open to selling Walker for a modest fee of £15 million in 2025. Given Walker’s stature and contributions to the club, this would be a significant discount, but it reflects City’s desire to move him on before his contract expires. While £15 million is a bargain for a player of Walker’s quality and experience, it appears that Manchester City are prioritizing a smooth transition for younger talents like Lewis, as they look to build for the future.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Walker’s potential departure is the interest from Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli. The Saudi giants, who have already signed several high-profile players including Walker’s former teammate Riyad Mahrez, are reportedly leading the race to secure the defender’s signature. Reports suggest that Al-Ahli would be willing to offer Walker a staggering £400,000 per week, a deal that would likely be too tempting to resist in the twilight years of his career. Such a lucrative offer could pave the way for Walker to follow in the footsteps of many European stars who have opted to move to the Middle East in recent years.
While a move to Saudi Arabia would be financially rewarding, it would also dash the hopes of Sheffield United fans, who have been dreaming of a reunion with their former youth product. Walker began his professional career at Sheffield United, and there has long been speculation that he could return to the club where it all started before hanging up his boots. However, the allure of a massive contract in Saudi Arabia, combined with the opportunity to join a star-studded Al-Ahli side, may ultimately prove to be too enticing for Walker to pass up.
Walker’s potential departure will mark the end of an era for Manchester City. Since joining the club for £44 million in 2017, he has been a key figure in City’s unprecedented period of success. During his time at the Etihad, Walker has made 308 appearances, scored six goals, and provided 23 assists. More importantly, he has won an astounding 17 major trophies, including six Premier League titles, a Champions League, two FA Cups, and four EFL Cups. Walker’s blistering pace, defensive acumen, and ability to contribute in attack made him one of the best full-backs in the world, and he has earned individual accolades along the way, including two PFA Team of the Year selections and a place in the 2023 FIFA FIFPRO World XI.
Walker’s influence extended beyond his on-pitch performances. He has been a leader in the dressing room, offering guidance to younger players and setting an example with his professionalism. His ability to adapt to Guardiola’s demanding tactical systems, which often required him to play as an inverted full-back, demonstrated his intelligence and versatility as a footballer.
However, football is a game of evolution, and with City’s focus shifting toward younger talent, the time may be right for both parties to part ways. Walker’s departure, should it come to pass, will be a bittersweet moment for City fans, who have come to admire his contributions over the years. Yet, as the club looks to the future, a new chapter beckons for one of their most loyal servants.
While Manchester City prepares for life without Walker, his legacy at the club is secure. He will be remembered as one of the best full-backs of his generation and an integral part of one of the greatest teams in Premier League history. Whether he moves to Saudi Arabia or takes on another challenge, Kyle Walker’s next step will mark the closing of an extraordinary chapter in his career.