England defender John Stones has become a free agent while at the World Cup with Thomas Tuchel's side, as his Manchester City contract expired on July 1, 2026. The 32-year-old centre-back, who won 17 major titles including six Premier Leagues and the Champions League during a decade at the Etihad Stadium, is now officially without a club.
Stones' Departure from Manchester City
Stones announced his departure from City two months ago, following the end of the season. He played his 294th and final game for the club on the final day of the Premier League season in May, leaving the pitch in tears and receiving a guard of honour. His next club remains unconfirmed, but Bayern Munich, AC Milan, and former side Everton have all been linked with the defender.
World Cup Involvement
Stones earned his 90th international cap in England's World Cup opener against Croatia last month. However, he was dropped to the bench for the match against Ghana and was an unused substitute in the victory over Panama. He could return to the starting lineup for the knockout clash with DR Congo on Wednesday afternoon, with Ezri Konsa potentially moving to right-back amid an injury crisis in that position.
Other Free Agents at the World Cup
Stones is not the only high-profile player without a club in North America. Liverpool legend Mohamed Salah is a free agent after leaving Anfield, with his Egypt side set to face Australia in the round of 16 on Friday. Brazil midfielder Casemiro has also left Manchester United, while Croatia's Luka Modric is in the same position for the second consecutive year after his one-year deal with AC Milan expired. Austria captain David Alaba is without a club after leaving Real Madrid, and former Manchester United defender Axel Tuanzebe, who is expected to play against England, is also seeking a new side after his Burnley contract expired. Germany's Leon Goretzka is heading home from the World Cup as a free agent after leaving Bayern Munich.
Other Notable Free Agents
Away from the World Cup, Jadon Sancho has been released by Manchester United, five years after his £73 million move from Borussia Dortmund. In the Premier League, Yves Bissouma has left Tottenham following the expiration of his contract, and Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn is searching for a new club after being released by Nottingham Forest. In Spain, six-time Champions League winner Dani Carvajal is also available on a free transfer after leaving Real Madrid following 13 seasons.
