Guardiola pays heartfelt thank you to Kyle Walker as defender joins AC Milan

Pep Guardiola paid tribute to his departing captain Kyle Walker, who has joined AC Milan on loan from Man City.

Guardiola revealed that Walker had asked to leave the club after his side’s FA Cup win over Salford City earlier this month.

The 34-year-old has joined Milan on loan until the end of the season with the Italian club also having an option to buy the defender.

And Guardiola thanked Walker, who joined City back in 2017 and went on to win six Premier League titles with the club.

“Kyle, thank you so much for the seven years you’ve been with us,” he said.

“The amount of trophies, the consistency and being a very important figure.

“I said it personally to him, I said it in front of the group, I wish all the best for him and his family. That is all.”

Walker also took to social media to thank the club, Guardiola, the fans and others following the confirmation of his departure.

“Manchester City, where do I start? Signing for this incredible club in 2017 was a dream come true. Seven years later, winning 17 trophies, including the Champions League and the famous treble is something I could only have dreamt as a child.

“To play alongside so many top players has pushed me to be the best version of myself, and I’m truly grateful for the opportunity I’ve had at the Etihad.

“A huge thank you to so many people, the coaching staff, the kit men and all the backroom staff who work tirelessly behind the scenes. You make every day enjoyable and provide the platform for us to perform at our best.

“To my teammates, from the moment I walked through the door I felt at home. Thank you for the great memories and for all the success we have shared together. You are friends, but also family for life.

“To Pep Guardiola, thank you for believing in me and working so hard to bring me here in 2017. Together, we’ve celebrated 17 trophies, and your guidance has helped shape me into the player I am today. I’ll be forever grateful.

“To Annie, our children and all my family who have been there and supported me on this journey thank you.

“Most importantly, to the fans—thank you for embracing me as one of your own from day one. Your unwavering support, week in, week out, home and away, will never be forgotten. I wish you all constant success going forward. Thank you, Kyle.”