Kyle Walker's back in Manchester! Ex-Man City star goes for expensive dinner with Phil Foden and other former team-mates ahead of Burnley's trip to Etihad Stadium

Walker was back in town and attended a farewell party for Manuel Akanji, who has sealed a loan switch to Inter. Among the familiar faces raising glasses were Bernardo Silva, Nathan Ake, Ruben Dias, Mateo Kovacic, and Phil Foden. Rising star Savinho, midfield anchor Rodri, Tijjani Reijnders, young full-back Rico Lewis, keeper Stefan Ortega and striker Omar Marmoush were also in attendance.

As revealed by The Sun, Walker arrived dressed down for the evening, sporting a black baseball cap, grey cardigan layered over a white tee, matched with grey trousers and trainers. In contrast, Foden went for something far more polished, a tweed jacket, black trousers and a statement chain around his neck.

Walker’s return to Manchester brings a cocktail of nostalgia and regret. During his eight years at City, the flying right-back lifted six Premier League titles, six domestic cups and finally got his hands on the Champions League. Yet, despite the silverware, the ending soured. The fallout with Pep Guardiola saw him shipped out on loan to AC Milan for the second half of the season. His permanent departure followed this summer, with Burnley picking him up for around £5m.

Since his move, Walker has wasted no time proving his worth. Manager Scott Parker, a former Tottenham and England team-mate, has relied heavily on his experience, with the 34-year-old playing every minute of Burnley’s five Premier League matches so far. His presence at the back has given the Clarets some much-needed grit as they attempt to establish themselves back in the top flight. The dinner may have been full of laughter and expensive wine, but once the whistle blows, there’ll be no favours on Saturday afternoon.