It is now official. John Stones leaves Manchester City as a free agent, confirmed. The defender leaves in June and is ready for a new chapter. The announcement, confirmed by both the club and transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, marks the end of one of the most decorated defensive careers in Manchester City’s history. Stones made the announcement on his Instagram page with a video accompanying a message that read: “They say all good things must come to an end… but this thing we have had has been the greatest and it will remain a part of me forever.”
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Official Club Statement
John Stones will leave Manchester City in the summer, bringing an end to a memorable and hugely successful ten-year stay at the Etihad. “The club and all of our supporters will take the time to deliver a fitting tribute and farewell to a superb servant of Manchester City Football Club at the end of the season,” the club statement said.
A Decade of Dominance
The England international joined City in 2016 from Everton for £47.5 million, quickly becoming a cornerstone of Pep Guardiola’s revolution, famously evolving from a traditional centre-back into a hybrid midfielder during the historic 2022/23 Treble-winning campaign. Stones won six Premier Leagues, one Champions League, two FA Cups, five League Cups, one Club World Cup, one Super Cup, and three Community Shields during his time at the club.
Career Statistics at Manchester City
| Statistic | Details |
|---|---|
| Years at Club | 2016-2026 |
| Total Appearances | 293 |
| Goals | 19 |
| Major Trophies | 19 |
| Premier League Titles | 6 |
| Champions League | 1 (2023) |
| Joined From | Everton |
| Transfer Fee | £47.5 Million |
He made 293 appearances for City, scoring 19 goals, but suffered from persistent injuries over the past couple of seasons.
Injury Struggles Define Final Years
Despite his success, Stones struggled with persistent fitness issues, exceeding 30 appearances in only one of the last five seasons. This season, Stones missed a lot of time with injuries, featuring in just 16 matches for City. The 31-year-old was restricted to just four Premier League starts under Pep Guardiola this season.
The Legacy
He has been known for his ball-playing ability, being dubbed “The Barnsley Beckenbauer” by fans, in reference to Germany’s greatest-ever defender Franz Beckenbauer, who revolutionised the defensive role. He came under fire in his first few seasons for some high-profile mistakes, but Pep Guardiola remained confident in the Englishman. Stones formed a solid partnership with Ruben Dias in the heart of the City backline, being named in the PFA Team of the Year.
Man City’s Defensive Transition
The move coincides with a defensive refresh under Hugo Viana, following the arrivals of Marc Guéhi, Abdukodir Khusanov, and the emergence of Vitor Reis. The club has clearly planned ahead, ensuring that Stones’ departure does not leave them exposed at the back.
What’s Next for John Stones?
Stones’ agent is already exploring options across Europe. The 31-year-old is expected to become a free agent in the summer of 2026 and has been offered to several top clubs in Serie A, as well as sides in the Premier League. Stones remains a highly regarded figure in the game for his technical ability and role under Pep Guardiola, but concerns over his recent injury record have made some clubs cautious. While interest exists, especially from Italian clubs, doubts over his fitness history could influence negotiations.
A move abroad is also being considered. City are not keen on renewing his contract, and it is highly likely that Stones will be a free agent this summer and will be searching for a new club for the upcoming campaign.
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FAQs
When will John Stones officially leave Manchester City?
John Stones will officially leave Manchester City in June 2026 when his contract expires, departing as a free agent after a decade at the Etihad Stadium.
How many trophies did John Stones win at Manchester City?
John Stones won 19 major trophies at Manchester City, including six Premier League titles, one Champions League, two FA Cups, five League Cups, one Club World Cup, one Super Cup, and three Community Shields.
How much did Manchester City pay for John Stones?
Manchester City signed John Stones from Everton in 2016 for a fee of £47.5 million, making him one of the club’s marquee defensive signings under Pep Guardiola.
Which clubs are interested in signing John Stones?
Stones has been offered to several top clubs in Serie A and the Premier League, with Italian clubs showing particular interest, though his injury record has made some clubs cautious.
Who will replace John Stones at Manchester City?
Manchester City have already addressed his departure by signing Marc Guéhi in January 2026 and previously adding Abdukodir Khusanov and Vitor Reis to their defensive options.
