Kyle Walker’s much-anticipated move to AC Milan has hit a snag, as he won’t be able to take to the pitch for his new team until next month.
The delay comes as a result of work permit regulations that were introduced after Brexit, which now apply to non-EU nationals like Walker.
Work Permit Hurdles and Medical Plans
The 34-year-old, who flew from Manchester to Milan on Thursday, was hoping to join his new team right away.
However, due to the new rules following Britain’s exit from the European Union, any non-EU player must secure a work permit to stay in Italy for more than 90 days.
As a result, Walker will need to complete this paperwork before he can start playing.
Walker is set to undergo a medical examination in Milan later on Thursday, after which he will be officially unveiled by AC Milan in a press conference at the club’s headquarters.
Last-Minute Bid from Saudi Arabia and Deal Details
In a dramatic twist, Italian media revealed that the transfer was nearly derailed by a last-minute offer from Saudi Arabia.
Despite this, Walker has agreed to join AC Milan on a loan deal worth £4.2 million, with an option for the deal to become permanent until 2027.
While his work permits are being processed, Walker is expected to stay in Milan until the weekend and meet his new teammates at training on Friday.
Missing Key Matches and Spectator Status
Unfortunately for Walker, this means he will miss two crucial games for AC Milan — a Sunday match against Parma and a Champions League fixture against Zagreb.
While he may attend both games as a spectator, he is not expected to play until all the necessary paperwork is sorted out.
Italian media outlets captured Walker’s arrival in Milan, where he was seen leaving the airport in a chauffeur-driven car and waving to fans who gathered to greet him.
He greeted supporters with a cheerful “Hello guys” before being escorted by AC Milan officials.
Mixed Reactions to His Arrival at AC Milan
Walker’s move has sparked mixed reactions in Italy.
While some fans are excited about his arrival, others are skeptical about the signing.
Gazzetta Dello Sport, a respected Italian sports daily, conducted a phone-in discussion where one panelist questioned whether AC Milan really needed the veteran defender.
The critique centered around his age, occasional mistakes on the pitch, and the complexity of his personal life.
Despite the doubts, Walker’s arrival marks the continuation of a long history of English players at AC Milan, following in the footsteps of names like Jimmy Greaves, Ray Wilkins, and David Beckham.
Now, Walker hopes to make his competitive debut in Milan’s upcoming match against city rivals Inter on February 2.
This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!
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