Midway through the World Cup, John Stones made it clear he felt he had been fit enough to play more regularly during his final season at Manchester City.
The England international made the World Cup squad, and played a key role for the Three Lions as they reached the semi-finals, despite being restricted to just 18 club appearances across all competitions last term and managing only 439 Premier League minutes - 78 of which came on his farewell appearance in a heavily rotated side on the final day of the campaign.
Stones opens up on frustration
“I’ve been ready to go [and play full matches] from earlier in the year,” he said, speaking after England beat Mexico in the last-16. “I’ve not had the opportunity, which is what it is. I’m frustrated when I don’t play. I want to play.”
Stones hasn't played nearly as much as he would have liked in recent seasons with City strengthening at the back with Josko Gvardiol, Marc Guehi and Abdukodir Khusanov all arriving over the past three years to add further depth in defence, while Stones' injury issues have also played a part.
Leaving City as a hero
Stones left City a hero, having put in a commanding performance in the Champions League final win over Inter Milan when the Blues won the treble. He departed the Etihad with 19 major honours.
Now the World Cup is over, the 32-year-old will turn his attention to seeking a new home for the 2026-27 campaign. He won't be short of offers and has interest from Italy with Juventus among those linked. But in recent days speculation has suggested Arsenal and Chelsea are considering signing the centre back.
Potential Premier League move
The Gunners can offer Stones a reunion with former City assistant Mikel Arteta, while Chelsea are looking to make strides under new boss Xabi Alonso having suffered a disappointing 2025-26 season.
Stones would struggle to be a regular for either side given his age, injury history, the quality options available at both clubs and the demands of a top-flight campaign, but the former Everton man has plenty more to offer besides minutes on the pitch.
His character and personality helped him fit in at City while his leadership and mentality ensured high standards for himself and the squad. He's been there and done it at the highest level and his playing style would suit clubs who dominate the ball.
What next for Stones?
Should Stones end up at a top-end Premier League rival, City would get an immediate answer on whether the parting of the ways was the correct call.
There was no contract offer on the table from the Blues when he left the Etihad. Had there been, he might have signed a new deal, albeit relations had seemingly deteriorated over the past two seasons. The World Cup has shown what he has to offer, now the question is to what extent can he do it in the Premier League.
“He’s an incredible person both on and off the pitch,” surmised outgoing Blues chief Pep Guardiola when Stones departed. City might be about to see whether Mr Incredible has got one more superhero season in him.
