Pep Guardiola confirms he won’t strip Kyle Walker of captaincy for having an extra-marital affair

Pep Guardiola won't be stripping Kyle Walker of his captaincy due to issues in his personal life.

Pep Guardiola confirms he won’t strip Kyle Walker of captaincy for having an extra-marital affair

Pep Guardiola reassured Kyle Walker of his captaincy (Via X/@Football__Tweet & goal)

Kyle Walker took over Manchester City captaincy following Kevin De Bruyne‘s injury back in August. The right-back has filled in as captain surprisingly well in the absence of the Belgian midfielder. However, Walker was crucified on social media for his extra-marital affair and subsequent apology in an interview. Amidst rumors surrounding Pep Guardiola‘s decision to strip him of the captaincy, fans have received conclusive evidence as to the future of Walker’s captaincy.

Kyle Walker recently apologized to his wife, Annie Kilner, for allegedly fathering two children in secret with another woman. He had also admitted to plotting a move away from the Premier League to escape all the ‘negative’ attention. However, the player decided against it and is still with defending champions Manchester City.

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Reassuring that Walker will retain his captaincy, Guardiola said;

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Absolutely. It's not my decision. It's a decision for the whole team.

He also offered support to Walker and his family and said that he wouldn’t utter a ‘single word’ about players’ personal lives. Walker has been a regular starter under Pep Guardiola and is currently enjoying his seventh season with the Citizens.

Pep Guardiola confirms return of ‘crucial’ player against Burnley

Manchester City have been without several players owing to injury. While the defending champions are within five points from the summit, they will have to be at their very best if they are to retain their title once again. Star man and goal-getter Erling Haaland missed out due to a foot injury for the past eight weeks. While initially believed to be a minute injury, further scans revealed a fracture in his foot.

Erling Haaland
Erling Haaland returned to Man City training almost a week ago (Via X/@Footbal__Tweet)

Guardiola’s recent announcement surrounding Haaland’s return has come like a breath of fresh air for City supporters. The manager has assured that the #9 will be part of City’s squad to face Burnley at the Etihad. Guardiola also added, “The most important news is that almost all the squad is fit“, a luxury that most teams can’t afford today.

Haaland has been spectacular for City up until his injury. The Norwegian is tied on goals with Liverpool star Mohamed Salah. Both have 14 goals in the Premier League and while Salah also recovers from an injury sustained at AFCON, Haaland has the perfect chance to pull away from his competition. With Kevin De Bruyne also returning to complete fitness, City will now breathe of confidence, as they initiate their plan to retain their league title.

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