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Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has stated that England right-back Kyle Walker is sidelined for "a while" and the defender would face difficulties to be ready for the 2022 World Cup. The 32-year-old wasn’t picked for Man City’s Champions League fixture with Copenhagen due to an abdominal injury.
Walker picked up this injury against Manchester United in the Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday. Guardiola was asked about Walker’s condition after the Citizens’ 5-0 victory over Copenhagen, and the head coach could not guarantee that Walker could play in Qatar.
"It's something abdominal and he will be a while out," Guardiola told reporters. "I don't know (how long). I cannot say anything else. Kyle will be out for a bit. We have to speak to the doctors. Hopefully, he can get (back for the World Cup) like Kalvin (Phillips). I know how important the World Cup is for the players but honestly, I don't know right now."
Walker has been a guaranteed starter in the England squad for the World Cup and emerged as a key player for Three Lions head coach Gareth Southgate. He played in both UEFA Nations League matches against Italy and Germany last month and has made 70 appearances for his England. He also played a crucial role in the English team that reached the semi-finals of the World Cup in 2018 and the final of Euro 2020.
On Thursday, Manchester City also released a statement about Walker’s injury. The Statement said, “Kyle Walker has undergone surgery after suffering a groin injury to his left leg during the first half of our 6-3 win over Manchester United on Sunday. The surgery was successful and a more detailed prognosis will be provided in due course. Everyone at Manchester City wishes Kyle a speedy recovery.”