Pep Guardiola made a huge offering to Kyle Walker in a bid to keep him at Manchester City over the summer.
That is according to The Athletic.
So, what did Pep Guardiola offer Kyle Walker? Let’s take a look…
What’s the story?
Well, it is said that the Spaniard gave the England international “the freedom of the Etihad Stadium” to convince him not to join Bayern Munich during the summer transfer window.
The Athletic add that dropping Walker is now “not so easy” for Guardiola – suggesting that he was promised plenty of game time under a coach who often rotates his squad.
So far this season, the Manchester City No.2 has started all 11 Premier League fixtures, as well as making three starts in the UEFA Champions League.
That is a lot of football for a 33-year-old to contend with, although Walker has proven himself as a remarkable athlete by not looking remotely tired in these outings.
Jack Grealish even believes the £175,000-a-week defender is playing the best football of his career right now.
Kyle Walker needs to keep delivering for Manchester City
Walker now has a lot of responsibility on his shoulders after John Stones suffered another injury setback.
The Manchester City No.5 started Tuesday’s 3-0 win over BSC Young Boys in the UEFA Champions League, but damaged his hip during the Group G clash.
Manuel Akanji also suffered an injury as he hurt his back in the warm up, meaning Guardiola is now without two of his most experienced defenders.
Therefore, Walker – who has already displayed excellent leadership qualities this season and beyond – must now step up and guide the Citizens through this sticky spell, helping youngsters such as Rico Lewis slot in.
Hopefully, the treble winners do not begin to fall apart without Stones and Akanji – both of whom are vital players.
