35-year-old Right Back Has No Chance Of Returning To Manchester City: Can The Club Secure A Decent Transfer Fee? | OneFootball

Manchester City finished the season in third position in the Premier League points table, and the club have already begun to review its options to strengthen the squad. The focus might be on areas that showed fragility in the latter part of the campaign, and defence tops that list.

The seniority of certain players is no longer sufficient to maintain the level demanded by the club. In that situation, one of the most frequently mentioned names is that of Kyle Walker. His situation is beginning to look like an imminent departure. The club do not want to drag out a renewal that offers no guarantees for the future.

Kyle Walker Has No Chance Of Returning To Manchester City

According to a report from Football Insider, Manchester City have decided to part ways with Walker. The right-back, who was recently on loan at AC Milan, could be looking for a permanent move this summer. City had signed him for £50m from Tottenham, and for several seasons, he performed at a very high level.

However, his physical decline is already evident. The board believes the time is right to look for a younger replacement with promise and fresh legs. Among the possible replacements, Valentino Livramento, from Newcastle, has been strongly mentioned, who would fit in with the renewal they are looking for at the Etihad.

Opinion:

From my point of view, Walker’s departure does not come as a surprise. Age impacts heavily, especially in a position that demands so much physical wear and tear. Guardiola needs full-backs who can sustain 90 minutes of pressing, quick transitions and constant covering. Livramento would be a step in the right direction if they manage to sign him. But letting go of a veteran always comes with risks. The 35-year-old brought more than speed; he was a commanding voice in the locker room and had experience in key games. Replacing that will not be easy.

Should City prioritise the arrival of Livramento? Undoubtedly. Not just because of his youth, but because he can adapt to the team’s style. Is it risky to let Walker go? Yes, but stagnating with players in decline can be more expensive. Will they manage to sell him for a good figure? I doubt it.

At this point, freeing up salary cap space may outweigh the transfer money. Perhaps the best option is to negotiate a free or low-cost exit. The important thing will be to close that chapter and build the next version of the team without dragging out old pieces. Because if there is one thing City has shown, it is that they are not afraid to reinvent themselves.