Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has confessed he was stunned by John Stones’ candid revelation that he considered walking away from football last season.
The Manchester City defender endured a nightmare 2024/25 campaign, managing just 11 Premier League appearances due to recurring injuries. Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, Stones revealed the constant setbacks took such a toll that he even contemplated retirement.
“Last season was very tough for me, to the point where I thought about stopping,” the England international admitted.
Rooney reacts with sympathy
Discussing the comments on The Wayne Rooney Show, the 39-year-old former England captain was taken aback by Stones’ honesty.
“That’s a surprise to hear him say that, but that’s what it can do to you when you keep getting injured. It’s hard because you want to play and you’re seeing your teammates going out and training every day and playing in big games. It can have an effect on you and you do start thinking of different things.” — Wayne Rooney, via *The Wayne Rooney Show*
Rooney, who avoided major injury issues during his own career, added: “I was fortunate and I never really had big injuries. But I’ve seen players who have injuries and it’s hard – you’re going in every day and you’re in the gym and your teammates are out on the pitch, it can be stressful.”
Stones fighting for Manchester City future
Stones, admired by England captain Harry Kane, has struggled to string together consistent seasons since joining City from Everton for £47.5m in 2016. Remarkably, he has never made more than 27 league appearances in a single campaign for the club.
Now 31, the Barnsley-born defender remains vital to Pep Guardiola’s plans when fit, but ongoing fitness struggles continue to haunt him. He missed the Manchester derby earlier this season and still faces a battle to stay available week in, week out.
With his £250,000-a-week contract expiring at the end of the season, Stones must prove both his durability and value to earn an extension. Otherwise, City may be reluctant to commit to fresh terms on such high wages.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William believes this season could be career-defining for Stones:
“Stones is at a crossroads. If he can stay fit and deliver, he’ll have a chance to extend his City career. But if the injuries persist, the defender faces not just uncertainty over a contract but potentially the end of his career — as his own comments highlight. The pressure is enormous.”
Key Insights
- John Stones admitted he considered retirement last season due to constant injuries.
- Wayne Rooney expressed surprise and sympathy, highlighting the mental toll of setbacks.
- Stones has never played more than 27 Premier League games in a season for City.
- His £250,000-a-week contract expires in summer 2026.
- This season could decide whether he earns a new deal or even contemplates retirement.
What’s Next for Stones and City?
Guardiola must carefully manage Stones’ workload, balancing his importance to the defence with the risk of further breakdowns. His experience remains invaluable, but City may start succession planning if his injuries persist.
For Stones, the goal is clear: stay fit, regain rhythm, and prove he can still be relied upon at the highest level. Anything less could see his Etihad career end — and, by his own admission, perhaps his career entirely.
👉 Should Manchester City take a gamble on extending John Stones’ deal, or is it time to prepare for life after him?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *