Pep Guardiola reveals Kyle Walker fallout in new Man City documentary
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola heavily criticised former captain Kyle Walker over his mid-season departure to AC Milan, newly released documentary footage has revealed.
The emotional behind-the-scenes series, which chronicles the Spanish tactician’s final two years at the Etihad Stadium, captures the immediate aftermath of the defender’s exit.
The England international secured a loan move to the Serie A giants in January 2025 after requesting a fresh challenge away from the reigning English champions.
Dressing room tensions exposed
Addressing his squad before a Premier League clash with Chelsea, the veteran manager expressed profound disappointment over how the experienced full-back handled his departure.
“It was so easy for him to come to me and say ‘I’m tired’. But you cannot behave as a captain the way he has done it. You cannot, in the toughest moments in our lives.”
“What did you do my friends? What did you do with your captain? Tell me, what did you do?”
The Amazon Prime series also highlights a fiery exchange between the pair following a dismal defeat to Liverpool at Anfield in December 2024.
During that fixture, the 34-year-old defender lost possession to Luis Diaz, leading directly to a penalty won by the Colombian winger.
Anfield argument and tears
“Kyle has to know that if you lose the ball it’s a goal.”
That post-match dressing room assessment drew a furious reaction from the Sheffield-born player.
“Every meeting, it’s my name.”
When his manager suggested the intense scrutiny came with wearing the armband, the former Tottenham star fired back, claiming his boss had never wanted him to lead the team.
City players had voted to give him the captaincy for the 2024-25 campaign, supported by a leadership group containing Kevin de Bruyne, Ruben Dias, Rodri and Bernardo Silva.
Guardiola’s emotional plea
The documentary reveals the immense pressure on the Catalan coach during a sequence of four consecutive defeats, which occurred shortly before he signed a contract extension.
Following his clash with the club captain, a tearful Guardiola pleaded with his remaining players to communicate openly if they felt he was the root of their problems.
“I won’t stay here just for the money, or just for the fact to stay. I extended the contract because I want to be here with you, I want to win a fight in that position.”
“But if you feel, captains first, then the other ones, that there’s a problem, tell me. It’s not going to change the love I have for all of you – not one second. But I want to fight. That’s all. I’m sorry.”
The defender’s departure brought an end to a highly successful era in Manchester, having amassed 316 appearances and six league titles since his £50m arrival in 2017.
However, that final campaign ultimately ended in disappointment, with the Manchester side finishing a season without a major trophy for only the second time under their legendary manager.