Pep Guardiola confirms Kyle Walker will miss Club World Cup

Pep Guardiola has confirmed that Kyle Walker will not be part of Manchester City’s squad for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, amid growing speculation that the defender will leave the club permanently this summer.

The 34-year-old spent the second half of the season on loan at AC Milan, but the Italian club opted against making the move permanent.

With his future at the Etihad now in serious doubt, reports suggest Walker could be on the move once again.

Guardiola told reporters on Friday: “Walker will not be with us at the Club World Cup.”

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Guardiola has effectively ruled Walker out of his future plans, paving the way for the England international’s departure.

Newcastle United’s Tino Livramento has reportedly emerged as City’s primary target to fill the right-back position.

Kyle Walker is a City legend, having made 319 appearances over the past eight years and winning an impressive haul of trophies, including six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four Carabao Cups, and the Champions League.

However, the former Tottenham full-back now faces an uncertain future after being deemed surplus to requirements at the club.

Manchester City will conclude their Premier League season with an away game at Fulham on Sunday before heading to the United States for the Club World Cup next month – a tournament in which Walker will not feature.