John Stones to leave Manchester City after 10 trophy-laden years

Manchester City have confirmed that defender John Stones will depart the club at the end of the 2025-26 season, following captain Bernardo Silva, who announced his exit earlier this month.

Stones, who joined City from Everton in a £47.5 million deal in August 2016, made the announcement on Tuesday. 

The 31-year-old England international has made 293 appearances for the club, scoring 19 goals and providing nine assists.

Speaking in an interview, the Centre back revealed how Manchester City has always been his home ever since he joined, as he lifted a lot of trophies.

As Pep Guardiola’s second signing, Stones became the world’s second most expensive defender at the time. 

Over his decade at the Etihad, he played a key role in one of the most successful eras in the club’s history, winning 19 major trophies. 

These include six Premier League titles and the club’s first-ever Champions League crown in the historic 2022-23 treble-winning season.

The centre-back was particularly influential during that treble campaign, even starting both the FA Cup final against Manchester United and the Champions League final against Inter Milan in a more advanced midfield role.

However, recurring injuries have limited his involvement in recent years. Stones has started just 18 Premier League matches since the beginning of the 2024-25 season and has not begun a league game since October.

Despite his reduced role, he could still add to his medal collection before leaving, with City currently competing in the FA Cup and Premier League title race, having already secured the EFL Cup this season.

Stones’ final appearance at the Etihad Stadium is expected to be on the last day of the Premier League season when Manchester City host Aston Villa on May 24.