John Stones reflects on a decade of dreams fulfilled at Manchester City as he prepares to leave the club at the end of the 2025-2026 season. He joined Manchester City from Everton in 2016 for £47.5 million and has made 293 appearances since then.
Stones has won 19 major trophies with Manchester City, including six Premier League titles and the 2023 Champions League. He has scored 19 goals during his time at the club. However, injuries have plagued his career; he missed 737 days and 295 matches.
This season, Stones has only made 16 appearances in all competitions due to injuries. He has played just 353 minutes of Premier League action, highlighting his struggles this year.
As he prepares to depart, Stones expressed deep affection for the club. “It has been my home for the past 10 years, and it will be my home for the rest of my life,” he said. He added, “I lived all my dreams out and lifted all the things that I came here to achieve.”
Stones is also aiming to feature for England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He has been capped 87 times by England and hopes to add to that tally before leaving.
Stones becomes the second long-serving player to announce his departure after Bernardo Silva. Pep Guardiola brought him in as one of his first signings, making a significant impact on both his career and the team’s success.
Key statistics:
- 293 appearances for Manchester City
- 19 major trophies won
- £47.5 million transfer fee from Everton
- 87 caps for England
- 16 appearances this season
The next chapter for Stones remains uncertain. He could take a pay cut to join Barcelona or might return to Everton or even join Coventry City.
