John Stones will leave Manchester City as a free agent this summer, concluding a decade-long career at the Etihad Stadium.
Why it matters: Stones has been a key figure in Manchester City’s success but has struggled with injuries in recent years, limiting his contributions.
Since joining from Everton in 2016 for £47.5 million, Stones has won six Premier League titles, the 2023 UEFA Champions League, and two FA Cups.
His departure follows a mutual decision with the club, with an official announcement expected next week.
Stones' exit comes as City transitions toward a younger defensive lineup, with interest from elite European clubs anticipated.
Driving the news: Reports indicate that Stones has played only four Premier League matches this season due to recurring injuries.
He has started just 10 Premier League matches since the start of the 2024-25 season, a stark decline from his earlier years.
Stones last played on March 7, 2026, against Newcastle United and has managed only 15 appearances across all competitions this season.
His injury struggles have prompted frustration from manager Pep Guardiola, who has had to rely on other defenders in his absence.
State of play: The 31-year-old defender has had an illustrious career marred by fitness issues.
Stones has not made more than 30 appearances in any of the last five seasons, raising concerns about his long-term viability.
Injuries have included a procedure on a damaged tendon affecting his leg’s elasticity, which has compounded his fitness challenges.
Guardiola has praised Stones’ skill and movement when fit, likening him to professional sprinters.
The big picture: Stones' departure is part of a broader squad evolution at Manchester City.
Alongside Stones, club captain Bernardo Silva is also set to leave, marking a new chapter for the team.
City has already brought in younger defenders like Marc Guehi to reinforce their backline.
Stones' potential exit may open opportunities for younger players to establish themselves in the first team.
What they're saying: Guardiola and England manager Thomas Tuchel both recognize Stones’ talent and potential impact.
Guardiola has expressed his frustration over Stones’ injuries but acknowledged his contributions when fit, particularly during the historic treble-winning season.
Tuchel called Stones “world class” and emphasized his importance for the national team, stating he still has “credit in the bank” for World Cup selection.
“If you come to the World Cup you should be fit,” Tuchel said, highlighting Stones’ game intelligence and experience.
By the numbers: Stones' injury history reflects his struggle to maintain consistent playing time.
He has averaged fewer than 30 matches per season over the past five years, a statistic that weighs heavily on his legacy.
Stones has played a key role in three title-winning campaigns: 2017-18, 2020-21, and 2022-23, contributing significantly to City’s success.
His trophy cabinet includes six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and the UEFA Champions League, cementing his status as a club legend.
What's next: As Stones prepares for his exit, speculation about his future intensifies.
Leading European clubs are reportedly monitoring his situation, showing interest in signing the seasoned defender.
Stones could potentially return to Everton, his former club, as he assesses his options for the next phase of his career.
Manchester City aims to secure additional silverware before the end of the season, with Stones hoping to contribute to a possible domestic treble.
As John Stones prepares to bid farewell to Manchester City, fans and teammates alike are left to ponder what could have been had injuries not curtailed his time on the pitch.