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Kyle Walker Retires from England After 96 Caps and Five Tournaments

ESPN Soccer •
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Kyle Walker has announced his retirement from international football after earning 96 caps for England over a 14-year career. The 35-year-old defender played in five major tournaments, including Euro 2020 and 2024 finals, and the 2018 World Cup semifinals. Walker made his final appearance for the Three Lions last summer against Senegal.

Walker's international journey began in 2009 under Fabio Capello, when he debuted against Spain at Wembley. He went on to represent England under managers including Roy Hodgson, Gareth Southgate, and most recently Thomas Tuchel. His career featured both highs like reaching European Championship finals and lows such as the 2016 Euro defeat to Iceland.

England manager Thomas Tuchel praised Walker as 'one of England's greats' who 'fully embraced the highest honour of representing his country.' Walker reflected on his career as 'a whirlwind of a journey' and expressed pride in helping transform England's international reputation. The Manchester City and AC Milan veteran will now focus on club football with Burnley, closing the book on a decorated international career that saw him become one of England's most capped defenders.