Kyle Walker retires from England duty after 96 caps

• Kyle Walker announces retirement from the England national football team after 96 appearances
• Defender played at five major tournaments, including finals at UEFA Euro 2020 and UEFA Euro 2024
• England manager Thomas Tuchel praises Walker’s 14-year international career

Kyle Walker has announced his retirement from international football after winning 96 caps for the England national football team.

The 35 year old defender represented England at five major tournaments, including the finals of UEFA Euro 2020 and UEFA Euro 2024, as well as the semi finals of the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Walker earned his final cap last summer in a match against the Senegal national football team. His retirement means he will not be considered for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

“I am sad to be making this decision, but I’m also very proud of what I’ve achieved with England,” Walker said.

“To represent my country at five major tournaments and reach the finals that we have has been a great honour. But today is the time that comes to an end. It is good for me to have a little bit of closure to my career on the international stage.”

Walker thanked the managers he worked with during his international career, including Fabio Capello, Roy Hodgson, Lee Carsley, Gareth Southgate and current England manager Thomas Tuchel.

He also thanked supporters and teammates who were part of England’s progress during his time with the national side.

“To represent your country once, let alone 96 times, I am extremely proud of that,” Walker said.

“To be among the first England team to reach a major final since 1966 is something I will always be proud of. We tried to change the way people look at English football and take some of the pressure off players representing the country.”

Tuchel paid tribute to the defender following the announcement.

“I know all England fans will join me in congratulating Kyle on an incredible international career,” Tuchel said.

“An international career spanning 14 years and five major tournaments is testament to Kyle’s dedication. He can look back on his time with the Three Lions with great pride.”

Walker made his England debut against the Spain national football team at Wembley Stadium under Capello. He later became a key figure in the squad during the management of Southgate.

At club level, Walker has played for Sheffield United F.C., Northampton Town F.C., Tottenham Hotspur F.C., Queens Park Rangers F.C., Aston Villa F.C., Manchester City F.C., AC Milan and Burnley F.C..

WRITTEN BY

Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.

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