Manchester City’s lineup announcement brought a surprise yesterday, as Kyle Walker made a comeback in the starting XI after being sidelined since the international break with a knee injury. While Walker’s performance in City’s 2-1 loss to Bournemouth wasn’t flawless, he deserves recognition for stepping up during the team’s ongoing injury crisis.
With City managing several key injuries, Walker’s return to action against Bournemouth was timely, even if it didn’t yield a win. As team captain, his decision to play, despite not being fully back to form, showcased his commitment to support his teammates.
Walker’s start also allowed Rico Lewis a well-needed breather. Though Lewis came on late in the game, he’s had limited rest time due to the numerous injuries within the squad. This small break was a positive takeaway from Walker’s return to the pitch.
After the match, Pep Guardiola highlighted that Walker had only trained once before the game. “Kyle [Walker] has gone 18 or 19 days and only one training session with us, and today he was there,” Guardiola said.
Walker’s performance may not have reached his usual standards, as Bournemouth’s speedy attackers tested him throughout the game. However, his willingness to be out there, aiding his team through a tough period, stands out. The effort may not have translated to his best on-field display, but Walker’s dedication to supporting City in challenging times deserves respect.
