Kyle Walker sends emotional message to wife after sealing loan move from Man City to AC Milan
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Kyle Walker has bid an emotional farewell to Manchester City after sealing his move to AC Milan, sharing a heartfelt 247-word message on social media.
The 34-year-old defender decided to seek a new challenge last month after nearly eight years with the Premier League champions.
"Manchester City... where do I start?" Walker wrote in his farewell post. "Signing for this incredible club in 2017 was a dream come true."
The England international's departure comes after Pep Guardiola revealed earlier this month that Walker was keen for a fresh start elsewhere.
Sources close to the player had quickly ruled out any potential move to the Saudi Pro League.
Kyle Walker has issued a statement online
GETTY/PA
In his farewell message, Walker reflected on his remarkable achievements at the Etihad Stadium.
"Seven years later, winning 17 trophies, including the Champions League and the famous treble is something I could only have dreamt as a child," he wrote.
The defender paid special tribute to his manager, stating: "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."
Walker also thanked his teammates, describing them as "friends, but also family for life."
He expressed gratitude to the City fans for "embracing me as one of your own from day one."
During his time at Manchester City, Walker amassed an impressive collection of 17 trophies.
His silverware haul included six Premier League titles and the coveted Champions League trophy.
The defender has been a key figure at the Etihad since his arrival in 2017, though he has struggled for form this season.
Matheus Nunes has been filling in as City's right back in recent weeks.
While Walker's City contract runs until 2026, sources indicate his permanent departure is likely this summer, having made clear his desire to finish his career abroad.
Walker will begin his new chapter in Italy alongside wife Annie Kilner and their four children, after the couple have reconciled following recent relationship troubles.
A source told MailOnline: "They've had well publicised struggles but are now looking to put all that behind them and start afresh in Italy."
Kilner, who will travel by private jet to join Walker, had previously served divorce papers in October but has since moved the footballer back into their marital home.
The couple will relocate with their children Roman, 13, Riaan, eight, six-year-old Reign and baby Rezon.
"Maybe Milan will be a fresh start for them?" the source added.
Walker included a message for his family in his statement on social media, adding: "To Annie, our children and all my family who have been there and supported me on this journey thank you."
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Kyle Walker spent eight years at the Etihad
PAAC Milan will cover Walker's entire salary during his loan spell at the Italian club.
The move comes after a difficult campaign for Walker at Manchester City, where he has struggled to maintain his best form.
The loan arrangement will run until the end of the current season, with Walker's City contract set to expire in 2026.
Despite the contract having time to run, sources suggest his permanent exit from the Etihad is expected this summer.
The defender had made it clear he wanted to experience playing abroad before ending his career, with Italy emerging as his preferred destination.
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