Overview
- Fabrizio Romano said Monday the 31-year-old is expected to go when his deal ends in June, with several outlets Wednesday reporting an announcement could come next week.
- Manchester City declined to comment, and Pep Guardiola said there is no clarity on Stones’ future but confirmed the defender returned to first-team training in recent weeks.
- Injuries have cut Stones’ role this season to about 15 appearances in all competitions and only four Premier League starts, which reporters cite as a key factor in the likely split.
- Everton are reported to be exploring a reunion as they assess options after Jarrad Branthwaite’s injury, while other European clubs are also being linked in early speculation.
- Stones has spent a decade at City since joining from Everton in 2016, winning the 2023 Champions League and six Premier League titles while redefining the centre-back role under Guardiola.