In the aftermath of Manchester City’s recent 3-2 defeat to Real Madrid in the Champions League, former England captain Wayne Rooney has voiced his bewilderment over Pep Guardiola’s decision to loan out Kyle Walker to AC Milan.
“So Strange” – Wayne Rooney Shocked by Guardiola’s Decision to Loan Walker
Rooney described the move as “so strange,” emphasizing Walker’s pivotal role in City’s successes over the past several years.
Reflecting on the match, Rooney remarked, “I think you see the importance of Kyle Walker over the last seven or eight years for Manchester City. It’s so strange to see Kyle Walker go out on loan to AC Milan.”
Walker, who captained City and was instrumental in their defensive lineup, joined AC Milan on loan last month.
His departure has left a noticeable void, especially evident during the recent loss where City’s defense struggled to contain Real Madrid’s late offensive surge.
The absence of Walker’s experience and leadership was palpable as City conceded two late goals, with Jude Bellingham netting the decisive winner in stoppage time.
Guardiola’s decision to let Walker leave has been met with criticism, not only from Rooney but also from fans and pundits who question the timing and rationale behind the move.
The defensive frailties exposed in the match against Real Madrid have intensified the scrutiny on this decision.
As City prepares for the second leg at the Bernabéu, the pressure mounts on Guardiola to address these defensive issues.
The absence of a seasoned defender like Walker could prove pivotal in their quest to overturn the deficit and advance in the Champions League.
The coming weeks will reveal whether Guardiola’s choice to loan out Walker was a calculated risk or a misstep that could haunt City’s European ambitions.
