Kyle Walker fires back at claims of ‘unacceptable behaviour’ after accusations he failed to turn up to Brentford game

Kyle Walker has responded to claims that he failed to turn up to Manchester City’s game against Brentford on Tuesday.

Club captain Walker was left out of the City squad who threw away a two-goal lead in West London in a 2-2 draw.

The 34-year-old also played no part in the Citizens’ 8-0 FA Cup win over Salford last weekend, with manager Pep Guardiola revealing after the game that the England international wants to leave the club.

Guardiola said: “It’s not easy for me to say but Kyle is not here because two days ago he asked to explore the options to play abroad at the end of his career.

“He asked two years ago after the Treble, when Bayern wanted him, but the offer was not good enough.”

The revelation prompted rumours that Walker chose not to be involved in City’s Premier League in West London as he continues to angle for a move away.

City fan account ‘City Chief’ wrote on X: “Kyle Walker’s behavior is completely unacceptable. As club captain, failing to show up for matches is a disgrace.

“If you want to leave, do it with respect—this is not the way. Your lack of commitment has been a major factor in this disappointing campaign.”

Walker took to social media to directly debunk the claim, replying to the post: “Failed to turn up? “I can’t be at Brentford and training at the same time. You may need to check your sources.”

Failed to turn up?
I can’t be at Brentford and training at the same time. You may need to check your sources 💙

— Kyle Walker (@kylewalker2) January 15, 2025

Walker appears almost certain to leave the club in January after a successful eight years which has seen him win six Premier League titles.

Reports suggest the right-back is keen to secure a move to an elite club who can help prolong his England career, which would rule out a move to Saudi Arabia after reported interest.

He has 93 England caps to his name and is seemingly desperate to reach 100 caps, which would see him become only the second black player to do so after Ashley Cole.

The former Tottenham defender has made nine Premier League starts for Man City this season, with his last start coming against Manchester United on December 15.

Walker was a regular during Euro 2024 and has started England’s last three games but is facing increased competition at the right-back berth from Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has impressed of his country of late.

The 2022 Treble winner is seemingly keen to impress new Three Lions boss Thomas Tuchel with a fresh start elsewhere.