Guardiola confirms Kyle Walker wants to explore opportunities abroad

Pep Guardiola has revealed that Kyle Walker will leave Manchester City after the defender expressed his desire to “explore the option of playing abroad and finishing his career”.

Guardiola confirmed Walker’s desire to seek a new experience during his post-match comments after City beat Salford City 8-0 in the FA Cup third round at the Etihad on Saturday.

The City boss also singled out Salford-born midfielder James McAtee for praise after the 22-year-old scored a second-half hat-trick in the incredible win.

Jeremy Doku (2), Jack Grealish, Nico O’Reilly and debutant Divin Mubama completed the scoring as City continued their strong start to 2025.

FULL TIME | In a hat 🎩

🩵 8-0 🔴 #ManCity | @okx pic.twitter.com/uVvzcCGHIs

— Manchester City (@ManCity) January 11, 2025

But they could soon be without Walker, who was missing from the matchday squad, after his manager said the 34-year-old – who has made more than 200 appearances for the club – has asked to leave the Etihad after eight years.

“Two days ago, Kyle (Walker) asked to explore the option of playing abroad and ending his career,” Guardiola said.

Guardiola also revealed that the England international has asked about leaving following interest from Bayern Munich following City’s treble in 2023.

“I asked him, the club asked him, how important is this?” said the mayor of the city.

“But now he would like to explore and go to another country. For that reason I prefer to play against other players whose mind is here, that’s all.’

“He’s looking to explore (his options) so it might not happen, we don’t know, you never know. Research the situation and I respect a lot. I am more than grateful for what he has done for us over the years.

“But he said he wanted to explore in his mind and heart and he wanted to explore it. sincerely? I don’t know what will happen.”

Hat-trick for James McAtee! ⚽️⚽️⚽️#MCISAL #BBCFootball pic.twitter.com/Pg1eILQEzy

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) January 11, 2025

Speaking about McAtee’s performance, Guardiola added: “I’m so happy for him, he’s a special player.

“Making a hat-trick is not easy. He started a bit flat I would say, but after that he has an incredible feel in front of goal. He has the right pace, he changed the rhythm to score and I’m very happy for him.”

“He’s a City supporter, in the academy for many, many years. He was one of the greatest talents of his generation alongside Jadon Sancho, Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers and Liam Delap.

“He played with those guys and was always their captain. I’m really, really glad he’s here with us.”

City will hope to extend their winning streak to four games when they travel to Brentford in the Premier League on Tuesday.