Tottenham have had the best of Kyle Walker, according to Mauricio Pochettino.
The 27-year-old England right-back has just joined Manchester City in a deal that could reach £54million. But Spurs boss Pochettino believes the Londoners got the jet-heeled star in his prime.
“He’s one of the best full-backs in England and Manchester City have paid a lot of money – £50million – just like they have signed different players to try to get success in the future,” said Pochettino.
“But, for me, I think we have seen the best of Kyle with Tottenham.
“We helped him improve and learn. When you pay this type of amount for a player, it’s because he’s top and because you are at your best. Then it’s normal that he will succeed. It’s a big pressure because when you pay for some players, the pressure to perform as well in every game becomes greater.
“It will be different, the pressure, for him. But there is no doubt that he is a quality player, a talented player. And there is no doubt that he will succeed with Manchester City.”
Pochettino also revealed there are no hard feelings between the pair, despite rumours of a bust-up prior to Walker’s departure.
Walker sent Pochettino a “Thank you” message with a heart emoji.
“We never had a problem. Never,” insisted the boss.
Pochettino confesses he is a 24/7 boss, who drives his wife crazy because he can’t switch off from football.
Even when the Argentinian, 45, goes on holiday or back to his other home in Barcelona, he can’t tear himself away from football.
“Switching off is a difficult thing to do,” he said. “My wife always complains.
"It doesn’t matter where we are, in Barcelona or wherever, I’m always with the phone or with Jesus Perez, my assistant or the chairman. It’s not like an office when you close the door, go home and switch off. It is 24-hour.
“Maybe some people switch off, but, for me, it’s impossible. Only when I’m sleeping.
“When you’re at home and some game is on – World Cup, Champions League, Premier League, Championship or League One – it’s like a happiness to watch football.
“At lunch or dinner, football could be on the TV. Maybe you don’t plan to watch, but you hear ‘Goal!’ and you’re ‘Oh!’ and looking for the TV. You’re happy, but your wife is not! My two sons love football and it is three against one!
"My poor wife.”
* Tottenham take on Juventus at Wembley in their final pre-season fixture on Saturday 5 August.
Adult/Junior tickets from £24/£14 atwww.ticketmaster.co.uk/spursjuve