Manchester City may be ready to part ways with long-serving defender John Stones if the right offer comes in this summer. Despite his technical brilliance and key contributions over the years, Stones’ injury record has become a significant concern for Pep Guardiola’s side.
The 31-year-old has endured a series of fitness setbacks, with foot, hamstring, and thigh injuries limiting him to just six Premier League starts last season. His most recent appearance came back in February during City’s Champions League loss to Real Madrid, after which he was sidelined with a thigh issue.
Though Stones has shown determination by returning to training and publicly dismissing exit rumours, the reality behind the scenes is more complex. Entering the final year of his contract and earning over £250,000 a week, his availability issues are raising eyebrows at the Etihad.
According to Manchester City expert Steven McInerney, the club would “move on in a heartbeat” if a reasonable bid comes in. City reportedly need to free up space, especially among their bloated central defensive ranks, which now include Josko Gvardiol, Ruben Dias, Nathan Ake, Manuel Akanji, and emerging talent Abdukodir Khusanov.
The homegrown status of Stones is one of the few factors working in his favour, particularly as City look to maintain their squad quota. However, Guardiola has repeatedly stated he cannot afford to rely on injury-prone players, especially when managing a title-contending squad in multiple competitions.
While Stones remains a fan favourite and one of the most technically gifted centre-backs the club has had, his future is under serious review. The concern is not just about depth, but financial logic—keeping a player on £10m+ annual wages who is rarely fit no longer seems feasible.
City may also be looking to trim two defenders from the current group. McInerney suggested Ake or Stones could be candidates, citing both players’ fitness records. Akanji might be the more logical departure, but Guardiola values his reliability and adaptability.
There’s also uncertainty over whether any club would take a gamble on Stones. His injury history, combined with high wage demands, could scare off potential suitors. Former club Everton have shown some interest, but it’s unclear if that will lead to formal negotiations.
Ultimately, Guardiola faces a tough balancing act—staying loyal to a player who has delivered on the big stage, including a standout display in the 2023 Champions League final, or making a business decision to preserve squad efficiency. Either way, Stones’ time at City could be nearing an end.