Manchester City defender John Stones has revealed that he considered retiring last season following a series of injury setbacks that left him questioning his future in football.
Stones was restricted to just 20 appearances across all competitions in the 24/25 season after enduring recurring ankle and hamstring problems, with the latter forcing him to miss the final months of the campaign.
His Manchester City career has been plagued by injuries, often halting his momentum at crucial moments. Since joining the club from Everton in 2016, he has failed to make more than 27 Premier League appearances in a single season.
So far this term, Stones has featured six times for City, starting on five occasions, and his improved form and fitness have earned him a recall to England’s recent squad, marking a positive step forward after a challenging period in his career.
“Last season was tough for me, to the point where I thought about stopping,” Stones told BBC Radio 5 Live. “I didn’t want to do it.
“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. There comes a point where you don’t know why it happens.
“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.
“When that time comes and something happens, it would be easier to say ‘well I didn’t do X, Y and Z that’s why’ – but when you do it, it’s then mentally challenging.
“Hopefully I don’t go back to that place.”
Olaoluwa is a dedicated sports writer and passionate football enthusiast with two years of experience. Known for his keen analysis and commitment to the game, his work reflects a deep love for football, blending strategic insight with the emotional moments that make it a global passion. He is focused on honing his skills and consistently aims to inspire and engage readers through every article he writes.
