According to a report from Metro, it was stated that Kyle Walker, Riyad Mahrez, and Aymeric Laporte will depart Manchester City in the upcoming summer transfer window in search of more consistent playing time at other clubs. Among the three, Walker’s potential departure is the most unexpected, given his significant role as a key player for Manchester City’s treble-winning campaign.
Walker’s Campaign With Manchester City
Walker has enjoyed a decent season at the Etihad Stadium, delivering impressive performances in the defence over 34 appearances for Man City across all competitions. Walker’s contributions also helped England secure qualification to last year’s quarter-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
However, the England international has not displayed impressive statistics at his club, averaging only 0.5 tackles, 0.7 interceptions, and 0.8 clearances per game in the Premier League. Nevertheless, he has demonstrated accuracy in passing, completing 89.3% of his attempted passes in the English top division (stats via whoscored).
Will Walker’s Departure Deal A Significant Blow To Man City?
Throughout his tenure at Man City since his arrival from Tottenham in 2017, Kyle Walker has proven himself as a reliable and consistent performer. His pace, defensive solidity, and attacking prowess have made him an integral part of Pep Guardiola’s tactical setup. Walker’s ability to track back, intercept opposition attacks, and provide width in the attacking third has played a crucial role in City’s success over the years.
Walker’s departure would undoubtedly leave a void in Manchester City’s defensive line. His experience and understanding of Guardiola’s system have allowed him to excel as a wing-back and provide defensive stability.
Nevertheless, the form of the English defender has waned during the previous campaign, potentially attributed to his advancing age. With only a limited number of years remaining to perform at the highest level, it is expected that Guardiola would strategically rotate him in crucial matches. With the English fullback demanding more playtime, the viable option would be to exit the Etihad Stadium and look for regular football elsewhere.
