Kyle Walker confessed that he was on the verge of tears when he had to leave Manchester City in what he described as a “sad” departure.
However, the England international stressed that joining AC Milan was an opportunity he “could not decline,” especially considering the family issues he was facing back home.
Walker`s transfer to the Italian club was finalized in January, marking the end of his successful seven and a half year spell at City.
During his time with Manchester City, the 34-year-old defender secured an impressive collection of trophies, including six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and a Champions League victory, all achieved in 319 appearances under manager Pep Guardiola.
Since joining Milan, Walker has quickly become a key player, featuring in 11 games for his new team, including a notable 1-1 draw against Inter Milan in the Coppa Italia semi-finals.
His move to San Siro occurred amidst personal family turmoil involving his estranged wife, Annie Kilner, and his former partner, Lauryn Goodman.
Walker shares four children with Annie and has two additional children with Lauryn.
Walker admitted that he nearly cried when bidding farewell to his Manchester City colleagues and staff.
Speaking on BBC Sounds’ The Kyle Walker Podcast, he recounted, “I told the team manager… the player liaison officer, that I wanted to say goodbye to the team in the canteen before my departure, once the deal was confirmed.”
“And he actually sent a message to everyone in the building! So, about 150 people gathered, and I had to say my goodbyes, which was quite overwhelming.”
“It was emotional because, despite any public perception, I made sure to personally say goodbye to everyone in that building, from the cleaning staff to the chefs, the kit men, and the physiotherapists.”
“Even seeing Emma, the lady who served food and drinks behind the counter, brought tears to my eyes. It was the realization that a daily routine of greetings and interactions was coming to an end. You don’t consider these things during the transfer process, but saying goodbye makes it real and difficult.”
Walker also explained his motivations for joining AC Milan.
He stated, “In football, certain opportunities arise that you must seize.”
“The chance to play in a different league, experience a new culture, and represent a prestigious club like AC Milan is something you can’t easily refuse.”
“When you feel wanted by a club, and you desire a fresh challenge, there are certain clubs in the world that are simply too appealing to turn down.”
“Given Pep’s experience as a top player and now managing top players, he understands that individuals have different desires and career ambitions. For me, this move felt like it came at the perfect moment. It was the right club at the right time.”
“I felt a need to explore something different, to avoid looking back after my career and regretting not trying a new experience at a club like Milan. It felt like the ideal step for me.”
