John Stones has firmly quashed speculation about a possible summer exit from Manchester City, confirming he wants to remain at the club after overcoming a frustrating, injury-plagued campaign. The defender, now 31, was limited to just 13 starts in the 2024–25 season, missing 33 matches due to recurring foot, hamstring, and thigh issues.
Despite interest from former club Everton, Stones says his commitment to City has never wavered. “I’m here, I want to stay here, I love it,” he told reporters ahead of City’s Club World Cup clash with Al-Ain in Atlanta. “I’m here to help the team… I hope that kind of shuts it down.”
The England international admitted to struggling mentally through what he described as “dark days,” as he worked tirelessly to return to fitness while dealing with the isolation of individual rehab. “You feel very lonely at times when you’re training by yourself,” he said. “It’s difficult when you’re injured… mentally for me it’s been difficult dealing with the injuries.”
Stones, who has been with City since 2016, reflected on the emotional toll of his setbacks, revealing moments of doubt and frustration. Still, he insists his passion for the game and support from family kept him going. “I was a fighter from a young age,” he said. “In difficult moments, you have to look at the bigger picture… and fight to make it worthwhile.”
Now back with the squad and included in Pep Guardiola’s 27-man roster for the Club World Cup, Stones is hopeful of getting some game time soon. He was an unused substitute in City’s 2-0 win over Wydad but could feature in their final Group G clash against Juventus on Thursday.
With one year left on his current deal, Stones seems focused on making up for lost time and re-establishing himself in Guardiola’s plans as City target more silverware in the upcoming season.