John Stones is set to leave Manchester City at the conclusion of the current season, ending a decade-long association with the club. The England international, who joined City from Everton in 2016 for a fee of nearly £50 million, will depart upon the expiry of his contract this summer. City officially confirmed the news on Tuesday, marking the end of an era for one of Pep Guardiola's earliest signings.
A Decade of Success
Stones, now 31 years old, has been an integral part of City's most successful period. He made nearly 300 appearances for the club, contributing to 19 major trophies, including six Premier League titles and the 2023 Champions League. His versatility and composure on the ball made him a key figure in Guardiola's system, despite persistent injury issues that limited him to just 16 appearances this season.
In an emotional Instagram post, Stones reflected on his journey: "It's been my home for the past 10 years, and it'll be my home for the rest of my life. 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."
Guardiola's Influence
Stones credited Guardiola with shaping his career, stating that their first meeting convinced him to join City. "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."
City paid tribute to Stones on their official website, acknowledging his immense contribution: "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 Highlights
- Joined Manchester City from Everton in 2016 for £50 million, then the second-highest fee for a defender.
- Won six Premier League titles, the Champions League, and 12 other major trophies.
- Earned 87 caps for England, starting his career at Barnsley before moving to Everton in 2013.
Stones is the second long-serving player to announce his departure, following Bernardo Silva, as City prepares for a transitional summer.
