John Stones, the 31-year-old defender for England and Manchester City, opened up about his struggles with injuries last season. These challenges made him contemplate retirement due to his limited playing time.
Injury Issues Affecting John Stones
During the last campaign, Stones participated in only 11 Premier League matches. Foot and hamstring injuries plagued him, with the latter cutting his season short in February. He expressed the mental strain these injuries caused, saying, “I thought about stopping.”
Major Tournaments and National Squad Status
Stones has played for England in five major tournaments. However, he has not represented the national team since October 2024. His absence came as Thomas Tuchel took over as manager in January.
Upcoming Matches
Stones has recently been included in the squad for two upcoming matches:
- Friendly against Wales at Wembley
- World Cup qualifier against Latvia on Tuesday, 14 October
Both matches are scheduled for 19:45 BST. A victory in Latvia will ensure England’s advancement to next summer’s World Cup finals, set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Despite the challenges, Stones remains committed to his career. Last season left him feeling defeated, yet he emphasized his determination to continue fighting. He remarked, “It’s mentally challenging when you’re doing everything right, but still facing setbacks.”
Current Season and Team Dynamics
This season, Stones has made five starts for Manchester City. However, manager Pep Guardiola seems to prefer a center-back pairing of Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol. Despite this, Stones is focused on regaining his position and contributing to the team’s success.
A Fighter’s Mentality
Reflecting on his recent struggles, Stones stated, “Deep down, I wouldn’t have retired.” He emphasizes his lifelong perseverance and determination, which he believes are essential for overcoming obstacles in his career.
As Stones continues to face challenges, his commitment to returning to form remains unwavering. His journey reflects not only his skill as a player but also his resilience in confronting adversity.
