"We Had No Money" – AS Roma Missed Out on Kyle Walker
AS Roma manager Claudio Ranieri has recently opened up about a missed opportunity to sign Manchester City’s Kyle Walker this January. The 74-year-old, known for his managerial prowess and a historic stint with Leicester City, revealed that his club was interested in the English defender but ultimately couldn’t proceed due to financial constraints and restrictions on non-EU players. Walker, currently on a six-month loan with AC Milan, is expected to leave Manchester City permanently at the end of the season, marking the end of a successful yet turbulent journey with the Premier League champions.
Kyle Walker’s Struggles at Manchester City
Kyle Walker, a 34-year-old veteran, has been a cornerstone of Manchester City’s defense since his £50 million move from Tottenham in 2017. However, the past few months have been challenging for the Sheffield-born fullback. A series of individual mistakes and a noticeable decline in his pace led to a significant drop in form, coinciding with City’s worst run of results under manager Pep Guardiola in November and December. The pressure mounted on Walker, and he faced harsh criticism from Manchester City fans, including instances of racial abuse, which he bravely addressed on social media, sharing the deplorable messages he received.
A Stellar Career at Manchester City
Despite the recent setbacks, Walker’s tenure at Manchester City has been marked by remarkable achievements. He has played a pivotal role in the club’s dominance, helping them secure six Premier League titles and a plethora of domestic honors. Most notably, Walker was instrumental in Manchester City’s historic treble-winning season in 2022/23, where they clinched their first-ever Champions League title. His energy, speed, and defensive skills have been crucial for Guardiola’s tactical setups over the years. However, the changing dynamics and the introduction of younger, faster players have made it increasingly difficult for Walker to maintain his starting position.
AC Milan’s Interest and the Loan Move
Recognizing Walker’s value and potential, AC Milan stepped in to offer him a lifeline with a six-month loan deal. The Italian club, known for its rich history and storied tradition, provided Walker with the opportunity to rejuvenate his career in Serie A. AC Milan’s buy option at the end of the loan period means that Walker could potentially extend his stay in Italy, a prospect that seems increasingly likely given his performance and the club’s interest. For Walker, the move represents a chance to escape the intense scrutiny of the British press and find a new lease of life away from home.
Ranieri’s Insight on AS Roma’s Missed Chance
In a candid interview, Claudio Ranieri provided insight into AS Roma’s interest in Walker during the January transfer window. "We could have got him, but we had no money – and we couldn’t take another non-EU player," Ranieri explained, highlighting the financial and regulatory hurdles that prevented the transfer from materializing. The Italian manager, who led Leicester City to an improbable Premier League title in 2016, understands the importance of bringing in experienced players like Walker, especially during a crucial phase of the season. Ranieri’s admission adds a human touch to the often cold and calculated world of football transfers, showing the manager’s genuine regret over the missed opportunity.
Walker’s Future and New Horizons
As Walker’s loan at AC Milan progresses, the former Manchester City captain appears determined to make a lasting impact in Serie A. He has already shown signs of regaining his form and confidence, which are essential for his future. The player, who has decided against a move to Bayern Munich in 2023, seems keen on settling abroad and steering clear of the intense media spotlight in England. If AC Milan exercises their buy option, it could mark a new chapter in Walker’s career, one where he continues to contribute his experience and leadership to a different footballing culture, capping off a stellar professional journey with a successful finale in Italy.
