Kyle Walker has asked to leave Manchester City: Pep

Asked about the 34-year-old's absence, Guardiola said: "Two days ago, Kyle asked to explore the options to play abroad at the end of his career.

"In his mind, he would like to explore it, to go to another country, to play the last years (somewhere else) for many reasons.

"For that reason, I prefer playing other players whose mind is here."

Walker has helped City win 17 trophies, including six Premier League titles and the Champions League, since joining the club in a $A90 million switch from Tottenham in 2017.

Yet he was close to joining Bayern Munich after City's treble win in 2023 and his performances over the past two seasons have been mixed.

Walker, who signed a contract extension in September 2023 tying him to the club until the summer of 2026, has not started for City since their derby defeat by Manchester United last month.

Guardiola said: "We cannot understand the success we've had these years without Kyle. It's impossible.

"Having a right-back (like him) gave us something that we didn't have and he has been amazing.

"But he said he wanted, in mind and heart, to explore it."

It is unclear whether Walker will leave City during this month's transfer window or not.

After a poor run of form by City which was exacerbated by a lengthy injury list towards the end of 2024, Guardiola had been hoping to strengthen his squad.

Guardiola said: "I said just 'explore'. That doesn't mean it's going to happen.

"I respect him a lot because I'm more than grateful (for what) he's done in many years with us. He arrived eight years ago and we started to win, win win.

"He's been important to the national team and important to our team but, honestly, I don't know what will happen."