Pep Guardiola responds to Kyle Walker ‘flashing’ accusations

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has revealed that Kyle Walker’s off-field conduct will be dealt with “internally” after the defender was allegedly caught ‘flashing’ at a bar last week.

The 32-year-old is being investigated by Cheshire Police after CCTV footage was released of the 32-year-old allegedly exposing himself at a bar in Wilmslow last Sunday, just over 24 hours after helping the Citizens beat Newcastle United 2-0 at the Etihad Stadium.

Walker is claimed to have pulled down his tracksuit bottoms on two occasions and exposed himself while drinking with friends.

The England international, who is married to his wife Annie, is also alleged to have snogged a woman and ‘pawed at one of his friends’ breasts’.

A spokesperson for Cheshire Constabulary said: “On Wednesday 8 March, Cheshire police were made aware of a video circulating on social media in relation to an indecent exposure which allegedly occurred in the Wilmslow area.

“Enquiries in relation to the incident are in the early stages and no arrests have been made at this time.”

Man City’s first-team squad were given a two-day break following the victory against Newcastle, and Guardiola’s side, including Walker, reported back to training on Tuesday morning.

It is understood that the Citizens do not intend to fine or suspend Walker based on the video evidence, and the right-back is available for selection for Saturday’s trip to Crystal Palace in the Premier League.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Guardiola provided a concise response to the indecent, saying: “It’s a private issue, we solve it internally, speak with him. This is not the place to speak about a private situation.”

Asked whether players must err on the side of caution when appearing in public, Guardiola added: “Yes definitely. It’s a bit different now. [Young players] know it. When you open the door at home they need to know they will be filmed whatever they do. That is society.”

Under the Sexual Offences Act 2003, indecent exposure is committed when a person intentionally exposes their genitals and intends that someone will see them and be caused alarm or distress.

Responding to the incident, a Women’s Aid spokesperson told The Sun: “Whether done to shock, for a so-called laugh, or to intimidate, for those affected by indecent exposure there can be long-term effects, upset and trauma.

“It can give the person exposing themselves a sense of power in the situation.

“And if there are no repercussions, it possibly gives them the confidence to see what they can get away with next time.”

Walker, who has 73 caps for England, has made over 230 appearances for Man City since joining the club in 2017 and has also won 11 trophies including four Premier League titles