Gary Lineker shares how he really feels about Man City selling Kyle Walker to Burnley in £5m deal

Gary Lineker has expressed his thoughts on Manchester City’s recent decision to sell Kyle Walker to Burnley for £5 million. He has previously critiqued Walker’s move to City but now acknowledges the defender’s contributions and importance to the team, reflecting on his journey and the impact of such transfers in football.

Lineker’s Reflection on Walker’s Career

• Gary Lineker has publicly acknowledged his past skepticism regarding Kyle Walker’s transfer to Manchester City from Tottenham Hotspur.
• He admitted to having reservations about Walker’s abilities when he first joined City for a significant fee of £50 million in 2017.
• Over the years, Walker has proven to be an essential player for City, contributing to their success with multiple titles, including five Premier League championships and a UEFA Champions League victory.

Apology and Acknowledgment

• During a recent podcast appearance, Lineker expressed regret for his earlier comments, which he felt may have upset Walker.
• He recounted an incident where he approached Walker at a charity event to apologize, stating, “I just want to say two things. One, you’re one hell of a player. And two, I shouldn’t have said that, I was out of order.”
• Lineker’s change of heart highlights the evolution of his perspective on Walker’s talent and contributions to the game.

Impact of the Transfer to Burnley

• The recent transfer of Walker to Burnley for £5 million marks a significant moment in his career, as he transitions from a top-tier club to a team looking to solidify its position in the Premier League.
• Lineker’s comments suggest that he believes Walker’s experience and skills will be invaluable to Burnley as they navigate the challenges of the league.
• This move also raises questions about the dynamics of player transfers and the financial aspects involved, especially considering Walker’s previous high-profile status.

Conclusion

• Gary Lineker’s reflections on Kyle Walker’s career and the recent transfer to Burnley illustrate the complexities of player evaluations and the impact of public commentary.
• As Walker embarks on this new chapter, it will be interesting to see how he adapts and continues to influence the game, proving that even seasoned players can face scrutiny and evolve in their careers.