Fabrizio Romano Confirms Another Man City Legend Will Follow Kevin De Bruyne Out of the Door | OneFootball

Man City Set for Summer Shake-Up as Another Club Icon Nears Exit

In a move that mirrors the recent announcement by Kevin De Bruyne, Manchester City are preparing to part ways with another club legend: Kyle Walker. As revealed by transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, the veteran full-back will not return to the Etihad next season, regardless of AC Milan’s decision to activate their €5m (£4.2m) buy clause.

Romano confirmed via X: “The story between Man City and Kyle Walker will be over in the summer, regardless of AC Milan’s future decision.” Even though Walker’s contract runs until 2026, Guardiola has already made it clear that City’s plans do not involve the England international.

This development underlines a brutal but necessary shift at Manchester City. As the club’s form has wobbled and their Premier League dominance faces renewed threats, the need for a squad overhaul has become pressing. Walker, who has been a central figure in City’s most successful era, is the latest casualty of Pep Guardiola’s ruthlessly forward-looking rebuild.

Legacy Secured Despite Looming Exit

There’s no questioning Walker’s contribution to City’s golden years. He has lifted six Premier League titles, four League Cups, two FA Cups and the UEFA Champions League – a stunning haul that few defenders in English football can match.

In addition, Walker holds the distinction of being England’s most-capped right-back with 95 appearances, and has been named in four PFA Premier League Teams of the Season. His pace, tactical intelligence and professionalism made him one of Guardiola’s most trusted players, particularly in high-stakes European fixtures.

Photo IMAGO

But as the article notes, “Walker’s contract back at City runs until the summer of 2025/26… the right-back will be 35 years of age at the time and is clearly on the decline.”

For all his past exploits, time is catching up. Injuries, tactical evolution and City’s need for rejuvenation mean Walker’s presence no longer fits the project.

Udogie and Cambiaso Among Future Targets

City aren’t just offloading—they’re actively preparing for the future. As Romano notes, “The club is exploring alternative options on the market… one of the players appreciated internally at Manchester City is the Italian talent, Destiny Udogie.”

The Tottenham full-back, who has impressed with his versatility and strength, is reportedly admired by new City director Hugo Viana. His ability to play on both flanks makes him a particularly appealing option for Guardiola’s fluid tactical systems.

Photo: IMAGO

Meanwhile, Juventus’ Andrea Cambiaso is also on the radar, having been linked to City back in January. His valuation stands at a hefty £51.5m, suggesting any move will be one of significance rather than squad depth.

As the article explains: “Man City’s new director Hugo Viana appreciates Udogie and was already following the player since he was at Udinese.”

Guardiola’s Ruthless Evolution

This season has already served as a wake-up call for City. A campaign that’s been more of a grind than a cruise has prompted a renewed focus on refreshment. Signing young, hungry players who can dominate for the next five years is not just strategy—it’s survival.

Having allowed too many veterans to age in unison, Guardiola is now reversing course with clinical precision. January’s arrivals—Vitor Reis, Abdukodir Khusanov, Nico Gonzalez and Omar Marmoush—were the first warning shots. The exits of De Bruyne and Walker are confirmations.

As sad as it may be for fans, change is essential. Guardiola knows this more than anyone.

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As a City fan, this one hits deep. Kyle Walker has been one of our finest servants—reliable, dynamic, and always up for the fight. Seeing him linked away for good, especially after all he’s done, genuinely tugs at the heart.

But at the same time, you can’t argue with the logic. Pep’s job isn’t to keep us sentimental—it’s to keep us dominant. If that means saying goodbye to legends like Walker and De Bruyne to make room for the next generation, so be it.

It’s also exciting in a way. Udogie looks like a serious talent—raw but fearless. Cambiaso too has potential, and if he’s on our radar, you can bet there’s quality. With Hugo Viana behind the scenes now, it feels like we’re heading into a new cycle, not just patching cracks.

Still, we owe Walker a proper send-off. The man gave us his best years and was a wall down that right flank in some of our biggest nights. Let’s not forget what he’s meant to the badge.

Let’s hope he ends his time with us on a high—maybe with another FA Cup in hand. One more for the road, Kyle.