John Stones Opens Up About Injury Challenges
In a recent statement, John Stones, the Manchester City defender, opened up about the challenges he faced during an injury-plagued season that saw him sidelined for most of the campaign. Having missed a staggering 33 matches due to various injuries, including a hamstring issue that forced him out for the last three months, he expressed his determination to reclaim a spot on the team now that he has returned to full health ahead of the upcoming Club World Cup.
Mental Toll and Team Dynamics
Stones, who only started six Premier League matches last season, acknowledged the mental toll of his injuries, categorizing some moments as ‘dark days.’ In his reflection, he remarked,
“It’s tough when you’re injured. I give everything to this sport, on and off the pitch, and it’s hard to reconcile that effort when you can’t contribute on the field.”
His absence was particularly difficult not just for him but for his teammates, as the team struggled through what they described as one of their worst seasons in a decade.
“It’s frustrating for the team, myself, and the manager to not be available to help when needed,”
Stones said, highlighting the impact of injuries on team dynamics.
This past season also saw several of Stones’ teammates, including Manuel Akanji and Nathan Aké, suffer from injuries, further complicating the squad’s ability to perform at a high level. Such setbacks prompted manager Pep Guardiola to reconsider his squad selection approach, indicating he prefers players who can maintain regular availability to minimize risks.
Future Commitment to Manchester City
Despite rumors linking him back to Everton, Stones has made it clear that he intends to remain with City.
“I’m here, I want to stay here, I love it,”
he emphasized, countering speculations about his future.
Looking ahead, Stones is poised to participate in the next match against Al Ain in Atlanta, having missed the opening game against Wydad AC. Guardiola expressed his eagerness to have Stones back in action, stating that the club’s priority is to keep him fit so he can showcase his talent once more. With a year left on his contract, the 31-year-old veteran seems ready to tackle the upcoming season with renewed vigor and commitment to the squad’s success.
