For years, Kyle Walker was an integral part of the English national team. After playing a remarkable number of international matches, he has now announced the end of his career with the Three Lions.
During his international career, Kyle Walker has played in two World Cups and three European Championships for England, reaching the European Championship final twice. The 35-year-old has played a total of 96 international matches, making his debut for the Three Lions in a friendly against Spain in 2011 at the age of 21. However, there will be no more games to add to that tally, as Walker announced his retirement from the national team via Instagram.
“After more than a decade representing my country, I have decided to retire from international soccer,” Walker wrote under an emotional video showing the most important moments of his time with England. “Playing for England has always been the greatest honor of my career and something I will always be proud of.”
Watching the World Cup as a fan
The decision comes as little surprise to most, as Walker was already missing from Thomas Tuchel’s recent squad selections. The Burnley defender made his last appearance in June in a friendly against Senegal (1-3).
The long-time ManCity pro will now watch the upcoming World Cup from his couch, saying he is looking forward to “supporting the team at the World Cup together with the fans.” Walker is especially grateful to them, as they “pushed his team forward with every roar.” He also extends his thanks to “every teammate, coach, manager, and everyone behind the scenes who was part of this journey.” The English Football Association itself also has nothing but praise for its long-standing international player, speaking of a “phenomenal career in the Three Lions jersey.”
Only one goal in 96 games
With 96 games for England, Walker ends his international career in 11th place among the players with the most appearances for the Three Lions. Of the players still active, only Harry Kane has made more appearances for England, with 112 international caps. Incidentally, he has scored only one goal in all these games—in 2023 in a European Championship qualifier against Ukraine (1-1).
Now, however, Walker can once again focus on his club career, in which he is facing relegation with Burnley, who are second from bottom in the Premier League. Nevertheless, his international career will always have a special place in his heart: “The memories in the England jersey will stay with me forever.”