Manchester City captain Kyle Walker has revealed he nearly joined Bayern Munich in the summer to escape scrutiny on his private life. Walker signed a contract extension with the European champions this summer ending the possibility of a move to Bayern.
Walker almost joined Bayern last summer
Speaking in an exclusive interview with the Sun the Manchester City captain revealed he was close to joining the Bundesliga giants. He revealed that issues in his private life had surfaced and he felt the need to escape England. Kyle Walker told the Sun: “I tried to escape. Did I want to leave City? No, of course I didn’t. We’re the best team in the world at the minute. But it was a chance to get away from England and the media I was going to get. I was aware the clock was ticking. I came very close to moving. We were having conversations. I was going to a great club, a massive club. But in the end, I couldn’t go. If I’m in Germany and this happens, Annie leaves and I’m now in Germany on my own. My kids wouldn’t be around the corner where I can see them.”
Walker also thanked Pep Guardiola for his support during a difficult time in his personal life. He said: “He didn’t know what was happening. I didn’t want to tell him because I didn’t want him to think I wasn’t mentally there. I can’t thank him enough for the understanding and belief he’s shown in me through four years.
Kyle Walker appears to be returning to his best
The private life of Kyle Walker has been the subject of intense media coverage recently. The City captain recently split with his wife due to his infidelity. As the situation in his private life rumbles on, on the pitch Walker appears to be returning to his best.
His form has fluctuated at times this season but he appeared back to his best in his team’s 1-nil win over Tottenham on Friday evening. Whether or not his private life affected his on-field performance is only a question Walker can answer. But if his performance against Tottenham is any indication he looks set to return to his inspirational best.
The Manchester City captain has a vital role to play in his team’s treble defence and as captain, he is a key figure for the club this season. The responsibility of being the treble winner’s captain means that the England international must put his best foot forward on the pitch to lead his side despite the turmoil off the field in his private life.
There is an opportunity for Kyle Walker to lead Manchester City to an unprecedented achievement. If his performance against Tottenham is the standard for the rest of the season for Walker has a key role to play in City’s chase for history.