Since the domestic season resumed, Kyle Walker had been an unused substitute in Manchester City’s EFL Cup and Premier League games. Rico Lewis was preferred over the 32-year-old and Joao Cancelo, but questions were being asked of Pep Guardiola when Walker would return.
He answered by starting the England international in Thursday’s 1-0 win over Chelsea, but Walker’s performance didn’t vindicate the decision. He played as one of three centre-backs alongside Nathan Ake and John Stones but was hooked at halftime.
Only three City players had a worse pass competition than Walker on the night and he was the only defender not to make a clearance, turn over possession or win an aerial duel.
It’s little wonder Rico Lewis replaced Walker at the break, but it now begs the question of why he was allowed to join England’s World Cup squad when wasn’t ready. He played three times in Qatar but didn’t perform well.
Guardiola left the 32-year-old out of three City games after the tournament, but Walker still looked off the pace and only lasted 45 minutes at Stamford Bridge.
In other news, Phil Foden is struggling after the World Cup
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