Kyle Walker axed from Man City squad for FA Cup clash with Salford City as brutal reason for England star's omission revealed

Walker has been left out of the tie due to "tactical" reasons, according to The Times. Reporter Paul Hirst has revealed that the full-back was neither ill nor injured and could have been picked, but that City boss Pep Guardiola has overlooked him.

Walker faces an uncertain future at the Etihad Stadium after a drop in form that has coincided with City's disappointing 2024/25 campaign so far. The full-back has played a key role under Guardiola since signing for the club in 2017, winning six Premier League titles and the 2023 Champions League, but now his days at the club may be numbered, with a move to the Saudi Pro League mooted.

Asked about a potential move to Saudi Arabia for Walker in his pre-match press conference, Guardiola said: "I don't know about that. Maybe he's not playing the minutes like he played in the past. Rico Lewis is playing really well, and of course the central defenders and Josko Gvardiol. I decide that."

With City said to be targeting two defenders this month - Abdukodir Khusanov from Lens and Vitor Reis of Palmeiras - Walker's playing time may be further reduced. Both potential signings are centre-backs but Manuel Akanji may get more minutes on the right side of defence, while Lewis is enjoying a breakthrough season for the Premier League champions.