'He has changed the defence of AC Milan' - Kyle Walker's immediate impact praised by club legend Massimo Ambrosini as ex-Italy star admits 'surprise' over England full-back's Serie A transfer

Walker is set to see out the 2024-25 campaign in Italy after completing an initial loan transfer from reigning Premier League champions Manchester City. A permanent switch is expected to be agreed at the end of the season.

Walker is now 34 years of age, but his vast experience and fabled pace over the turf is being put to good use by the Rossoneri. He has settled quickly in new surroundings alongside the likes of USMNT stars Christian Pulisic and Yunus Musah.

Having made his debut in a derby draw with arch-rivals Inter, Walker has since figured in three domestic wins and a solitary European defeat for Milan. Ambrosini – speaking to bet365, who offer the latest UEFA Champions League odds here – exclusively told GOAL: “I was a little bit surprised to see Kyle Walker join AC Milan because he’s been one of the best defenders in the world over the last five or six years. A time in which football has changed and everyone has to do everything, especially defenders.

“Right now his impact at Milan has been good, I had no doubt that it would be because he has had a career that speaks for itself. He has changed the defence of Milan, they really needed a player like him.”

Walker was replaced at half-time during his latest Milan appearance, with Rafael Leao sent on in his place as manager Sergio Conceicao sought more of an attacking spark. He will be hoping to complete the full 90 minutes when facing Feyenoord in the Champions League knockout phase play-offs on Tuesday – with the Rossoneri trailing that contest 1-0 on aggregate.