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Kyle Walker has announced his retirement from international football with the England national team, bringing an end to a 14-year career just months before the next World Cup.
The 35-year-old defender earned 96 caps for England after making his debut against Spain in 2011 at the age of 21. During his international career, Walker featured in five major tournaments, including UEFA Euro 2016, the 2018 FIFA World Cup, UEFA Euro 2020, the 2022 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2024.
He was part of the England side that reached back-to-back European Championship finals, losing to Italy at Euro 2020 and to Spain at Euro 2024. Walker also played a key role in England’s run to the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup under former manager Gareth Southgate.
His only international goal came against Ukraine in 2023, and he captained England on three occasions. Walker had not featured for the national team since a surprise 3–1 friendly defeat to Senegal in June 2025.
Announcing his retirement, Walker said representing England had been the greatest honour of his career.
“Playing for England has always been the greatest honour of my career. Every time I pulled on the shirt it meant a huge amount to me and my family,” he said.
“After a lot of thought, this feels like the right moment to step away and allow the next generation of players to come through. I leave incredibly proud of the journey and grateful to every manager, teammate and supporter who has been part of it.”
