Renowned transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Manchester City defender John Stones is set to bring his illustrious stay at the club to a conclusion at the end of the current campaign. The news marks a significant turning point for the Premier League champions, as the versatile England international becomes the second high-profile figure slated for a summer exit, following the earlier confirmation that club captain Bernardo Silva will also depart after a nine-year stint.
According to Romano, the 31-year-old center-back is approaching the end of his contractual obligations and is expected to explore new opportunities as a free agent. Despite the impending transition, Stones remains fully committed to the club’s current objectives, intending to provide maximum contribution toward their trophy pursuits before officially bidding farewell to the Manchester side.
“John Stones, expected to leave Manchester City in the summer as free agent,” Romano detailed via a social media update. “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.”
Stones’ tenure at the Etihad has been defined by a period of unprecedented success, during which he evolved into one of the most technically proficient defenders in European football. His departure, alongside that of Bernardo Silva, signals the end of a golden era for Pep Guardiola’s squad and necessitates a strategic recalibration of the team’s defensive core.
As the summer transfer window nears, the focus for the City faithful will be on celebrating the legacy of a player who was instrumental in their recent domestic and continental triumphs. For Stones, the move represents a chance to start a new chapter in his career after having solidified his status as a legendary figure in the history of the Citizens.