Published on Jul 06, 2025
After eight glittering years at the Etihad Stadium, Kyle Walker has officially brought his Manchester City journey to a close, joining newly promoted Burnley in a surprising $6.3 million (£5 million) transfer. The seasoned England international described City as a “special place that will remain in my heart forever” in an emotional farewell message.
Walker, now 35, arrived at City from Tottenham Hotspur in 2017 and quickly cemented his place as one of Pep Guardiola’s most reliable and dynamic defenders. Over 319 appearances, he collected an astonishing 17 major honors six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four Carabao Cups, and the historic treble in the 2022–23 season.
In his farewell video posted across social media platforms, Walker thanked the club's owners, staff, teammates, and fans:
“Seven and a half years. A truly amazing, fantastic, wonderful, and special place that will remain in my heart forever… Thank you to each and every one of you.”
He spoke warmly about his journey both on and off the pitch, calling City a home where he and his family grew personally and professionally.
Walker now embarks on a fresh chapter with Burnley, signing a two-year deal with the Clarets as they return to the Premier League. Managed by former teammate Scott Parker, Burnley’s project and location in North-West England reportedly played a big role in Walker’s decision.
“When I spoke to Scott and heard about his plans for Burnley, it felt like an exciting new challenge. I still feel fit and hungry, and I believe I can help this team.”
His arrival is seen as a massive win for Burnley, injecting top-level experience, leadership, and a winning mentality into a youthful squad aiming to stay afloat in the top flight.
Walker’s departure marks another pivotal shift in Manchester City’s evolving squad. With Riyad Mahrez and Aymeric Laporte already departed, Kevin De Bruyne now gone, and Joao Cancelo transferred permanently to Al Hilal, City have reshaped much of their leadership core.
İlkay Gündoğan has returned to the squad, adding vital experience and midfield stability. However, Walker's exit leaves the right-back position vacant. Rather than pursue a direct replacement, Pep Guardiola is expected to adapt tactically:
Rico Lewis, primarily a central midfielder, has been used in an inverted full-back role.
Manuel Akanji is another defensive option who could be shifted laterally depending on the opponent.
With 96 caps for England and appearances in two FIFA World Cups, Walker remains a valuable figure in Thomas Tuchel national setup. A key part of the squads for UEFA Euro 2016, Euro 2020, Euro 2024, and the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, he’s expected to push for inclusion in the 2026 squad.
Regular playing time at Burnley, combined with his leadership role, could extend both his club and international careers.
As Kyle Walker turns the page, City fans will remember his blazing pace, elite defensive instincts, and understated leadership. His parting words captured it all: “Thank you for the memories. I’ll carry them with me forever.”
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