Kyle Walker Announces Shocking PL Move

In a move few saw coming this summer, Kyle Walker has reportedly agreed to join Everton, marking the end of a legendary chapter at Manchester City. The 35-year-old right-back spent the second half of last season on loan at AC Milan. Still, after returning to England and evaluating his options, he’s reportedly decided to remain in the Premier League with the Toffees offering him a new challenge and, perhaps more importantly, consistent minutes in the top flight.

Walker still had a year left on his City deal, but sources close to the club made it clear he was no longer a part of Pep Guardiola’s plans, and it’s been evident since January. He was omitted from the Club World Cup squad, signaling no change of any dramatic return. While AC Milan reportedly held initial talks about making his loan permanent, they ultimately decided to move in a different direction, leaving the door open for Premier League clubs to make a move.

Everton’s Plan

Everton has pounded. Under new leadership and looking to rebuild its identity, the Merseyside club views Walker not just as a reliable veteran but as someone who can immediately bring professionalism, structure, and defensive intelligence to their backline. 

This might seem like a step down for a player who’s won everything there is to win: six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four EFL Cups, and a Champions League. But for Walker, it’s the opposite. It’s a lifeline to stay relevant, competitive, and in the English conversation, considering he’s 35 now.

Why Everton Is the Perfect Fit

At first glance, Walker to Everton might not scream “perfect fit.” After all, this club has spent the past few seasons fighting relegation. For Walker, the most immediate benefit is regular playing time. He’s sitting on 96 England caps and has made no secret of his desire to hit the century mark,  a feat only a handful of English players have ever achieved. Thomas Tuchel, England’s current manager, has emphasized that international minutes will be allocated to those who earn them at the club level. Sitting on the City’s bench wasn’t going to cut it.

Then there’s the role itself. At Everton, Walker won’t be fighting for his place every week. He’s expected to slot straight into the starting lineup, not just as a right-back, but potentially in a hybrid leadership role on and off the pitch. With Ashley Young moving on and Seamus Coleman nearing the end of his career, the Toffees needed someone steady, battle-tested, and commanding. Walker checks every box.

There’s also the personal element. Walker is a proud competitor, always playing with a chip on his shoulder. Joining a hungry and rebuilding team gives him something new to chase. He’s no longer fighting for titles but for legacy and possibly one last shot at representing his country at a major tournament.

The Bigger Picture for City and the PL

Walker’s departure is part of a wider summer transition at Manchester City. The club is recalibrating, both financially and tactically. Guardiola has reportedly been pushing for younger, more flexible players who can play several roles. That vision doesn’t include a 35-year-old fullback with miles on his legs, even one with Walker’s experience. The writing had been on the wall for some time. There were whispers last winter about the City offering Walker in part-exchange deals or covering part of his wages to get him off the books.

Walker leaves City as a certified club legend. He helped redefine the fullback role under Guardiola’s system, using his athleticism and defensive nous to lock down the toughest attackers in the world. He will probably be the best right back of this Premier League generation, and certainly the best in the club’s history. His exit won’t spark anger or resentment from fans; it’ll spark gratitude. And a little surprise that Everton, of all teams, managed to secure his signature.

Final Thoughts

As the pre-season approaches, Everton fans can expect to see Walker’s move finalized as soon as possible so that he can join the squad. He’s a natural leader, and given the team’s ongoing rebuild, his voice will be just as important as his legs. There are also rumblings that his contract includes an option to coach or mentor within the club after retirement, which might appeal to a player already thinking about life after football.

For now, though, Walker’s focused on the present. He’s chasing one last run of form, one last call-up to the Three Lions, and one last moment under the spotlight. It’s easy to forget how long he’s been doing this at the highest level. He’s always delivered from his early days at Sheffield United to Tottenham and eventually to the peak of English football with Manchester City.