Manchester City have confirmed that Kyle Walker has undergone surgery for a groin injury that he suffered in the 6-3 win over Manchester United at the weekend. They have not been able to confirm when he’ll be back in action, with this injury dealing a major blow to the England international’s chances of playing in next month’s Qatar World Cup.
Manchester City Confirm Surgery for Kyle Walker
Walker Will Know the Extent of His Injury Soon
The 32-year-old right-back picked up the injury while challenging for the ball during the first half of his side’s big win over their Manchester rivals. He ended up falling to the sideline and had to be substituted following the incident.
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Walker’s injury resulted in him undergoing surgery, just over a month before the start of the World Cup. However, the Citizens have also confirmed that a detailed prognosis of his recovery period will be provided in due course. The defender is a key member of Gareth Southgate’s squad due to his defensive ability, and his versatility to play as a right-back and as a centre-back in a back-three.
Walker Reacts to Injury Set-Back Amid World Cup Selection Questions
After City confirmed his injury, the Englishman opened up about his feelings after the surgery and tweeted: “As players we have to appreciate injuries are part and parcel of the game we love. My operation on Tuesday was a success and now I can concentrate on my rehab and getting back to full fitness. I will be supporting my teammates every day in any way I can.”
Walker was reportedly certain to be a part of Southgate’s England squad for the World Cup, but now he faces a race against time to be fit. The England squad will be announced on October 20 and the right-back has to prove his fitness before that to have a chance of making the trip to Qatar.
Kyle Walker confirms the surgery he needed after suffering a groin injury during the Manchester derby was a success 👍 pic.twitter.com/xjLRzg8tey
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) October 6, 2022
The 32-year-old has made 534 career appearances at club level and earned 70 caps for England. He was named among the best defenders in the world by PSG star Neymar earlier this year, with the Brazilian superstar describing the defender as “fast, strong and intelligent.”
