John Stones dismisses exit rumours and affirms commitment to Man City

John Stones has hit out at rumours of a possible exit from Manchester City, publicly asserting his desire to remain at the club. The England defender, whose contract expires next summer, has been the subject of speculation due to his injury record and Pep Guardiola's intention to reduce the size of the squad.

However, Stones has been clear: "I'm here, I want to stay here, I love it. I'm here to help the team, and I don't know if what's been said or speculated, but I hope that kind of shuts it down." The player acknowledged that injuries have been a difficult time in his career, and that he has even questioned whether he will continue in professional football.

“There’s been points where you think, you’ve been giving all this effort, you dedicate all your life, especially how I approach or go about my life, and football, I give everything, on and off the pitch to be here or be ready to play games and [there] are the dark days.”

Stones explained that these difficult times made him reflect on his career and the effort he has put in over the years.

“All of us have been through different upbringings and challenges through life and what did we do within those situations, was it fight or was it give up? I was a fighter from a young age, in difficult moments, you have to look at the bigger picture and realise what are your morals, what you believe in, and fight to make it worthwhile.”

Despite the difficulties, Stones remains committed to Manchester City and motivated to continue contributing to the team. The club, for its part, has not officially commented on the player's contractual situation.