Former Tottenham star reveals tough experience during his time at the club

Kyle Walker, one of the most consistent right-backs in recent Premier League history, recently opened up about the emotional turmoil he experienced during his final days at Tottenham Hotspur. While much has been said about Walker’s high-profile £45 million move to Manchester City in 2017, the deeper emotional impact of his departure is only now coming to light.

During his eight years at Spurs, Walker established himself as one of the club’s most reliable players. His pace, defensive acumen, and ability to contribute offensively made him a key figure in a Tottenham side that consistently challenged for top-four finishes. However, his relationship with then-manager Mauricio Pochettino became strained during his final season, ultimately leading to his exit.

In his podcast, the now 34-year-old defender recounted how Pochettino's decision-making during the 2016-2017 season left him disillusioned. Walker explained that Pochettino began rotating him with Kieran Trippier in the latter part of the season, which disrupted his form and rhythm. The inconsistency in playing time made it difficult for Walker to maintain his momentum, and he soon realized that he was no longer a guaranteed starter.

Former Tottenham star reveals tough experience during his time at the club

The situation reached a painful climax during Tottenham's final game at White Hart Lane, a historic match against Manchester United. The occasion was meant to be a celebration of the club's history at the iconic stadium before moving to their new ground. For Walker, who had grown from a promising youngster to an established star at White Hart Lane, this match held immense sentimental value.

To his dismay, Pochettino left him on the bench for most of the game, only bringing him on in the 84th minute. Walker described this moment as one of the most hurtful experiences of his career. Despite the tension between him and Pochettino, Walker had hoped to play a significant role in this final match at the stadium that had been central to his career. Instead, he was given a brief cameo, which, in his own words, "really hurt" him.

Pochettino, in his book "Brave New World," claimed that Walker had approached him before the end of the season to express his desire to leave, a revelation that the Argentine manager interpreted as a betrayal. Walker, however, refutes this version of events, insisting that it was Pochettino who had made it clear that he was no longer part of his plans.