Manchester City and England defender John Stones has opened up about the mental and physical struggles he faced during the 2024-25 season, admitting he considered retiring from football. The 31-year-old endured a frustrating campaign, limited to just 20 appearances in all competitions for Manchester City, with a hamstring injury cutting his season short in February.
Stones revealed the extent of his struggles in a recent interview with BBC Radio 5 Live, stating, "Last season was tough for me, to the point where I thought about stopping". He elaborated on the mental toll the repeated injuries took, saying, "I had had enough of being so professional and trying to do everything right in my power, to then keep breaking down and not having the answers. It was a very difficult place to be in".
The defender, known for his professionalism and consistency under Pep Guardiola, admitted the repeated setbacks created a sense of helplessness. "There comes a point where you don't know why it happens," Stones explained. "And it is even harder when you put in so much effort, or you are ultra professional, to be able to play and be available". He added that it becomes "mentally challenging" when you put in so much effort to stay fit and something still happens.
Despite contemplating retirement, Stones asserted that he never truly considered walking away from the game. "My emotions were high. I wasn't thinking straight. Deep down, I don't think I would have ever done it," he said. "I've always been a fighter — that's all I've known since I was a kid. Why stop now?". He further emphasized his fighting spirit, stating, "there is that fight in me and that winning mentality that doesn't want to stop".
Stones' career at Manchester City has been marked by considerable success, including six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, two League Cups, and a Champions League trophy. However, injuries have consistently hampered his ability to maintain a consistent run of games, with the defender failing to make more than 27 league appearances in a single season since joining the club in 2016.
Currently, Stones has made five starts for Manchester City this season. Despite facing competition from Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol for a place in the starting eleven, he remains a senior figure in Pep Guardiola's squad.
Stones' dedication to England remains unwavering. He has been recalled to the England squad by manager Thomas Tuchel for the upcoming friendly against Wales and the World Cup qualifier against Latvia. "My love for England, I think it's difficult to put into words," Stones said. "I love England so much - I love playing for England. I have had some of the best moments in my career playing for England [and at] tournaments".
His return to the squad is a significant boost for England as they aim to secure their place in the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. A victory in Riga against Latvia would guarantee England's qualification for the finals.
Stones also highlighted the importance of mental health awareness, echoing sentiments he's expressed in the past. He emphasized the need for individuals to express their feelings and seek help when needed, noting that bottling things up can lead to a "downward spiral". Stones' openness about his own struggles serves as an encouragement for others to prioritize their mental well-being.
