Manchester City could be set for another major departure this summer, with defender John Stones reportedly expected to leave the club at the end of the season.
According to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, Stones is likely to depart as a free agent after nearly a decade at the club. He wrote: “John Stones, expected to leave Manchester City in the summer as free agent. 31 year old defender wants to help until the end of the season and then expected to go after making history at MCFC. Bernardo and Stones, both leaving in June.”
The report comes amid expectations that Bernardo Silva will also leave the club, signalling what could be a significant squad reshuffle for manager Pep Guardiola.
Stones has endured an injury-hit campaign, making just seven Premier League appearances this season. A thigh injury sidelined him for nearly two months between December and February, limiting his role in Guardiola’s plans.
Despite his recent struggles, the 31-year-old has been a key figure since joining City from Everton in 2016 for £47.5 million, at the time making him one of the most expensive defenders in the world.
During his time at the club, Stones has been part of one of the most successful eras in English football history. He won his first major honours in the 2017–18 season as City secured both the Premier League and EFL Cup, with the team also setting a record 100 points in a single league campaign.
He played a crucial role in subsequent title races, including a famous goal-line clearance against Liverpool in the 2018–19 season, which proved decisive in the title outcome.
Stones went on to win multiple Premier League titles, as well as the Champions League in 2023 when City claimed their first European crown. His honours also include FA Cups, EFL Cups, Community Shields, a UEFA Super Cup and a FIFA Club World Cup.
At international level, he has been a regular for England, featuring prominently under Gareth Southgate and helping the team reach back-to-back European Championship finals. Stones has made 292 appearances for Manchester City across all competitions, and if confirmed, his departure would mark the end of a highly decorated spell at the club.
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