Former Manchester City goalkeeper Shay Given has revealed that Kyle Walker was devastated after not being included in the starting lineup for the Champions League final. Walker, who played the full 90 minutes in both semi-final clashes against Real Madrid. He only came in as a substitute in the final minutes of the match against Inter Milan. Given expressed his surprise at Walker’s omission and suggested that it may have affected the team’s nervousness before the game.
Given highlighted Walker’s impressive performance in the Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid, where he effectively neutralized Vinicius Junior. He said that many people were expecting Walker to be in the starting lineup for the final, and his exclusion came as a big shock. Given also speculated on whether the news of Walker not starting may have contributed to some nervousness within the team.
Reports emerged that Walker gave his teammates a pre-match team talk, expressing that his dream was now in their hands. Given suggested that this added pressure might have affected the team at the beginning of the game. He also mentioned seeing a picture of Walker and Riyad Mahrez entering the stadium together. Both looked disappointed, which further indicated Walker’s emotional state.
Guardiola’s tactical decision to leave Walker on the Bench
Pep Guardiola had previously stated that he left Walker out of the starting XI for tactical reasons. It was likely due to Inter Milan’s formation with two strikers rather than wingers. While Walker may have felt disappointed not to start. Given said that being on the pitch and witnessing the team’s victory would have ultimately brought him joy.
Shay Given’s comments shed light on Kyle Walker’s disappointment at not being included in Manchester City’s starting lineup for the Champions League final. Given expressed surprise at the decision and suggested it may have contributed to the team’s nervousness early in the match. However, Walker’s presence on the pitch for the final moments and the team’s ultimate victory would have likely overshadowed his initial disappointment.
