England defender John Stones will leave Manchester City at the end of the season, bringing the curtain down on a glittering 10-year spell at the Etihad.
The 31-year-old centre-back’s contract expires this summer, closing a chapter that began with his £47.5m move from Everton in 2016. Since then, Stones has made 293 appearances and collected 19 major trophies during the most successful era in the club’s history.
City confirmed the departure in an official statement issued earlier today, April 28, praising his “magnificent decade of service” and his role in a period that delivered six Premier League titles, the Champions League, two FA Cups, five League Cups, three Community Shields, the Club World Cup and the UEFA Super Cup.
In an emotional social media post, Stones reflected on a journey that shaped both his career and personal life.
“It has been my home for the past 10 years and it will be my home for the rest of my life,” he said.
“It has been a rollercoaster in many ways. I came as a kid and now leaving as a man – becoming a father, a husband and, on the pitch, a very fulfilled player.
“I lived all my dreams out and lifted all the things that I came here to achieve.
“At the start of my career here, I never would have thought I would be in this position. Firstly, to achieve everything but to have the love, the bond with everyone. Every dream has been smashed out of the park.”
Stones was the second signing made by manager Pep Guardiola after he arrived in Manchester and quickly became a cornerstone of the Spaniard’s defence.
“I don’t think it would have been anywhere near as successful without him,” John Stones added. “I’m so grateful that I’ve been able to spend so long with him, win everything with him. I feel lucky and grateful for what he’s done for me.”
