Walker’s calm exit fuels Burnley’s bid for a longer club career

Former England right‑back Kyle Walker announced his retirement from international football in March, saying he is "at ease" with the decision after earning a record 96 caps, the most for any England defender. The move caps a career that included appearances in two European Championship finals – the 2021 final against Italy and the 2024 final versus Spain – and a photo of those moments is credited to Getty ImagesImage.

The 36‑year‑old Burnley defender celebrated his birthday in May before completing his switch from Manchester City, where he collected six Premier League crowns and the Champions League trophy, ahead of the 2025‑26 campaign. Walker explained that shedding international duties will help prolong his playing days, describing the choice as a collaborative decision made with his family at the English Football League launch in Manchester’s National Football Museum.

When asked whether his omission by manager Thomas Tuchel meant he retired too early, Walker replied "no, definitely not," noting that England’s injury woes – including Reece James, Trent Alexander‑Arnold and Tino Livramento – would allow him more family time. He cited former teammate James Milner as a model, recalling Milner’s retirement from England at 30, ten additional Premier League seasons, a record number of appearances, and eventual retirement at 40 after a spell at Brighton.

Walker added that he will take his career "season by season," pointing out he will be 37 at the end of the campaign, still feels he is playing at a good level, and hopes to emulate Milner’s extended club career. Burnley begin their Championship campaign on 16 August at home against fellow relegated side West Ham, and Walker’s ability to maintain his performance will determine whether the plan to lengthen his club career materialises.