Walker was excluded from City's squad for Saturday's 8-0 FA Cup victory over Salford after indicating his interest in pursuing opportunities overseas.
Pep Guardiola believes Kyle Walker could continue performing at a top level for several more years, yet he is willing to let him leave Manchester City.
Walker was excluded from City's matchday squad for Saturday's 8-0 FA Cup rout of League Two’s Salford after he expressed interest in exploring opportunities overseas.
The 34-year-old right-back has been an integral part of Guardiola's dominant team since transferring from Tottenham in 2017, contributing to the club's collection of 17 trophies, which includes six Premier League titles and a Champions League victory.
However, his recent performance has been inconsistent, and his request follows a period away from the team, as he hasn't started since the derby defeat against Manchester United on December 15.
Guardiola would support him in regaining his form, yet he won't obstruct his path.
The City manager remarked, "He is an exceptional player with outstanding physicality. When he is focused, he's unstoppable as a right-back and truly top-class."
"If he remains fit, he could continue playing professionally for another one to four years. I've never encountered a player with such exceptional physical attributes in my career."
"If he wishes to consider other options, the club will do so as well. Ultimately, it's his decision to make, not mine."
Walker is now the captain of the City team, having succeeded Ilkay Gundogan after he departed following their 2023 treble victory.
He has been associated with a possible move to AC Milan, but since he's under contract until 2026, any agreement would require approval from City.
It is uncertain if this could occur during the transfer window this month, and Guardiola declined to comment on whether he might play again while his future remains unsettled.
"It's up to him," he remarked. "The transfer window will close when it closes, and I can't predict what will happen."
City's comfortable cup victory featured Jack Grealish finally breaking his extended goalscoring drought by winning and converting a penalty against Salford at the Etihad Stadium.
The English international had not scored in club football since December 2023.
This occurred only a week after Guardiola urged the 29-year-old to prove himself, following his replacement in the team by summer recruit Savinho.
Guardiola expressed his satisfaction, saying he is genuinely pleased and wishes the best for all of his players. He wants them to excel in their performances.
However, ultimately they need to deliver. It's not just about Jack—definitely not—but I remember seeing him during the year we won the treble when he was a key player for us.
Afterwards, he played less and then there are two possibilities: either blame me or reflect on how you can improve. This is the reality.