Kyle Walker reveals David Beckham inspiration behind choice of AC Milan shirt number and how ex-Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham convinced him to join from Man City

Walker has opted for Milan's number 32 shirt following completion of his move to Italy. It is the same jersey former England captain David Beckham wore during loan spells at the club in 2009 and 2010, having reversed the digits of his preferred 23 worn at Real Madrid and LA Galaxy. Walker additionally spoke about the role compatriot Tammy Abraham played in selling the Rossoneri to him.

"I chose number 32 for David Beckham," Walker explained to local reporters upon his unveiling. "Tammy [Abraham] told me I should come. He helped me make a decision. The Milan fans here are incredible, hearing them sing, it will be emotional."

Walker has fulfilled a personal desire to play football outside England by joining Milan, but the move also comes at a good time both professionally and personally for him. The veteran defender has struggled badly for form this season, exacerbated by Manchester City's wider problems as a team, but is also gives him an opportunity to resurrect his marriage by moving to Italy with wife, Annie Kilner, after previously being on the verge of divorce. Walker's second child with ex-mistress Lauryn Goodman, revealed at Christmas 2023, had left his personal life in pieces.

Walker is the latest in a string of English players who have played for AC Milan. In the current squad alone, Abraham is on loan from Roma, while Fikayo Tomori and Ruben Loftus-Cheek joined permanently from Chelsea in 2021 and 2023 respectively. As well as Beckham, Jimmy Greaves, Ray Wilkins, Mark Hateley and Luther Billsett have all turned out for the club over the decades. Milan was even founded by an English expat in Italy, Herbert Kilpin, in 1899.

It has been reported that post-Brexit red tape will prevent Walker from making his Milan debut until next month, requiring a work permit to stay in Italy beyond an initial 90 days. But once he is available to play, Milan will hope his experience and ability can boost a disappointing season that so far sees them sitting eighth in Serie A, struggling to keep pace with the clubs in the hunt for European qualification.