The English defender, John Stones has tied himself with Manchester City for another four years after signing his contract extension on August 10.
The 27-year-old defender had joined Manchester City from Everton in 2016. It was the second-highest deal for a defender at that time as the Cityzens splashed £47.5 million to land him. But he failed to deliver up to his price tag as his performance did not meet the expectations. Over the years, he was falling down the pecking order. In the 2019-20 season, his future was uncertain at the club.
But thanks to their new signing, Ruben Dias, his fortunes immediately shifted. The following season, he played a pivotal role in the club’s journey throughout the season. John Stones became a reliable player after his display with the club during the 2020-21 season. Being a solid partner alongside Ruben Dias, his performance helped Manchester City retain the Premier League title from Liverpool. Along with that, his partnership with Harry Maguire helped England reach the first final in 55 years. The stats speak for themselves as England had conceded only two goals in the Euro 2020.
John Stones Signs a New Deal With Manchester City
New Contract For Stones After Stellar Season
The centre-back had no second thoughts while signing the contract extension. Stones had regained his spot in the squad and had also won back Pep Guardiola’s trust. Having signed the contract, he said: “I couldn’t be happier. I love being part of this squad. There are so many quality players here and I know we can continue winning trophies, which is my main focus. Working with the manager is a dream – he has taught me so much about the game and I feel like I learn something new every single day.
The success we’ve had in the last four years has been incredible. To be a part of it has been a dream come true and I just want to continue winning. This is the best place for me to play my football and fulfil my ambitions.”
A tough title defence awaits Manchester City
Manchester City has been a formidable side the past decade. With five league titles to their name, they are always the favourites to lift the title. Guardiola has spent so much on perfecting the defence that he has finally produced a world-class back-4. Along with that, the addition of Jack Grealish has made their attack unstoppable. If they go on to land Harry Kane, it is equivalent to handing them the title.
But, don’t snooze on their contenders either. So far it has always been Manchester City or only one other competitor. This season, it will be at least a 4-way battle for sure. Their fierce rivals have got acquired their long-waited target, Jadon Sancho and the four-time Champion League-winning defender, Raphael Varane. Manchester United are now almost ready to compete for the title.
One transfer window, two record-breaking signings. Manchester City made Grealish the costliest British transfer. Soon enough, Chelsea sprung into action by announcing an agreement with Inter Milan for the signature of Romelu Lukaku. Once that deal is completed, he will become the record signing. Chelsea had won the Champions League without the presence of a prolific striker. So we can only imagine what havoc will be wreaked with him in the team.
As for Liverpool, they have been silently in the market. Jurgen Klopp made only one signing to strengthen the defence with the addition of Ibrahima Konate. He wants to make sure not to falter like the previous season. Moreover, the return of Virgil van Dijk after a long injury just made them a strong wall to go past.
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