Kyle Walker, defender of Ghana's 2026 FIFA World Cup opponent, England, has announced his retirement from international football, just months before the start of the tournament.
The experienced defender made the decision roughly three months before the tournament, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
BREAKING: Kyle Walker has announced his retirement from international football after earning 96 caps for England ???????????????????????????? pic.twitter.com/2BlpUblM6T
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) March 10, 2026
England have been drawn in Group L of the competition alongside Croatia national football team, Ghana national football team and Panama national football team, setting up a highly anticipated group stage meeting between England and Ghana’s Black Stars.
Despite being widely regarded as one of football’s traditional powerhouses, England have only lifted the World Cup once in their history. Their sole triumph came at the 1966 FIFA World Cup when they defeated Germany national football team to claim the title on home soil.
Since that historic success, England have experienced several disappointments on the global stage and will be aiming to end that long wait for another title at the 2026 tournament, where they will face stiff competition, including Ghana, in the group phase.
Walker, who currently plays for Burnley FC and previously starred for Manchester City, confirmed his international retirement on Tuesday after earning 95 caps and scoring one goal for England.
"After more than a decade of representing my country, I have decided to retire from international football. Playing for England has always been a great honour in my career, and I will always be proud of it."
"I want to thank all my teammates, coaches, administrators, fans, and everyone who contributed to this journey. The fans' support has been a huge motivation for the team, and I'm looking forward to joining them in supporting the players at the World Cup. My memories of wearing the England shirt will stay with me forever,” Walker said in a statement.
A message from @kylewalker2 to you #ThreeLions fans ? pic.twitter.com/Gv8RSj8sjy
— England (@England) March 10, 2026
Send your news stories to [email protected] and via WhatsApp on +233 546310076.
Read Full Story
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
Instagram
Google+
YouTube
LinkedIn
RSS