John Stones is set to leave Manchester City at the conclusion of the current season, bringing an end to a highly successful 10-year stint at the Etihad Stadium. The Premier League champions officially confirmed the departure of the 31-year-old England international on Tuesday, with his contract set to expire this summer.
Stones' Legacy at Manchester City
Stones joined City from Everton in 2016 for a fee of nearly £50 million, making him one of the most expensive defenders at the time. He was among the first signings under manager Pep Guardiola and went on to make nearly 300 appearances for the club. During his tenure, Stones helped City secure 19 major trophies, including six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four League Cups, and the 2023 UEFA Champions League. He also contributed to the club's FIFA Club World Cup triumph.
Injury-Hit Final Season
This season, however, Stones has been limited to just 16 appearances due to persistent injuries. Despite this, his impact over the years has been immense. He is the second long-serving player to announce his departure this season, following Bernardo Silva's earlier confirmation.
Emotional Farewell from Stones
Taking to Instagram, Stones expressed his gratitude and emotional connection to the club. "It's been my home for the past 10 years, and it'll be my home for the rest of my life," he wrote. "It's been a roller coaster in many ways. I came as a kid and now leaving as a man, becoming a father, a husband and, on the pitch, a very fulfilled player, I suppose, living all my dreams out and lifting all the things that I came here to achieve."
He added: "At the start of my career, I never would have thought I'd be in this position - firstly, to achieve everything - but to have to love the bond with everyone. Every dream has been smashed out the park."
Guardiola's Influence
Stones credited Guardiola as a key factor in his decision to join City and his subsequent success. "I don't think it would have been anywhere [near] as successful if it wasn't for him," Stones said. "The first time that I met him, I left that moment and knew that it was what I wanted to do, where I wanted to be, playing under the best manager in the world. I'm so grateful I've been able to spend so long with him, win everything with him, and share and have so many incredible moments together."
Club Tribute
Manchester City paid tribute to Stones on their official website, stating: "The 31-year-old's huge contribution across the most sustained and successful era in the club's history stands without question. Now the club and all of our supporters will take the time to deliver a fitting tribute and farewell to a superb servant of Manchester City at the end of the season."
Career Overview
Stones began his professional career at his hometown club Barnsley before moving to Everton in 2013. His impressive performances at Goodison Park convinced City to invest heavily in his services. Capped 87 times by England, Stones has been a mainstay in the national team setup, representing his country at multiple major tournaments.
As the season draws to a close, City fans will have the opportunity to bid farewell to one of the club's most decorated defenders, whose contributions have been instrumental in shaping the club's modern era of dominance.
