Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has paid tribute to Kyle Walker after the defender completed his loan move to AC Milan for the rest of the season.
Walker's departure from the Premier League champions was confirmed on Friday night, with the veteran penning a heartfelt message on social media for the club, their fans and his family and wife, Annie Kilner.
The 34-year-old's move to Italy comes just under a fortnight after Guardiola revealed that Walker was interested in a fresh start elsewhere and sources close to the player quickly ruled out the potential of the Saudi Pro League.
Ahead of Saturday's crunch clash against Chelsea, the City manager thanked Walker and said: “Thank you very much for the seven years you have been with us.” Because of the number of trophies, because of the consistency, because it is a very important number.
“I told him personally and I told him in front of the group that I wish him all the best for him and his family.”
Guardiola complained when asked if City would miss Walker's influence amid their struggles. The Spaniard said: “He decided to leave.”
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola paid tribute to his former captain Kyle Walker
The 34-year-old completed his loan move to AC Milan for the remainder of the season.
Walker has struggled for form this season, coinciding with problems in his wider private life.
Having played for City for almost eight years, Walker has struggled for fitness this season, coinciding with problems in his wider private life unfolding in the public domain as he fights to save his marriage.
Walker is ready to begin the new chapter of his life with his wife Annie Kilner and their four children after the couple apparently mended their relationship after being on the brink of divorce.
The defender took to social media to send a farewell message to City and their fans as he prepares to start his new life abroad.
'Manchester City… where do I start? Signing for this incredible club in 2017 was a dream come true. Seven years later, winning 17 trophies, including the Champions League and the famous treble, is something I could only have dreamed of as a child.
“Playing alongside so many top players has pushed me to be the best version of myself and I am truly grateful for the opportunity I have had at the Etihad.
'Many thanks to so many people, the coaching staff, the fitters and all the backroom staff who work tirelessly behind the scenes. You make every day enjoyable and give us the platform to perform at our best.
'To my teammates, from the moment I walked through the door I felt at home. Thank you for the great memories and all the success we have shared together. You are friends, but also family for life.
“To Pep Guardiola, thank you for believing in me and working so hard to get me here in 2017. Together we have celebrated 17 trophies and your guidance has helped me become the player I am today. I will be forever grateful.
Walker will begin a new life with his wife Annie Kilner and their four children after being on the brink of divorce.
He wrote a message to his family, Manchester City and AC Milan when the move was confirmed.
'To Annie, our children and all my family who were there and supported me on this journey, thank you.
'The most important thing is for the fans: thank you for accepting me as one of yours from day one. Your unwavering support, week after week, at home and away, will never be forgotten.
'I wish you all continued success in the future. Thank you. Kyle.'
During his time at the Etihad, Walker lifted 17 trophies, including six Premier League titles.
Milan will pay all of Walker's significant wages for the duration of the loan. Matheus Nunes has been filling in at City's right-back position in recent weeks.
Walker's contract with City expires in 2026, but it seems inevitable that he will leave for good in the summer after making clear his desire to end his career abroad.