John Stones admits he considered retirement amid injury struggles last season
The 31-year-old has represented England at five major tournaments
England and Manchester City defender John Stones admitted he contemplated retiring last season due to injury.
Stones was limited to just 11 Premier League appearances last term, with his campaign ending in February because of foot and hamstring problems.
The 31-year-old has made five starts for City so far this season, but has not played for England – who he has represented at five major tournaments – since October 2024, before Thomas Tuchel took over as manager.
And the former Everton and Barnsley player revealed he thought about packing it all in at times last term.
“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.”
However, Stones went to say he did not think he would actually hang up his boots, citing an inner “fight” and “winning mentality” as the reason for staying motivated.
“My emotions were high,” Stones added. “I wasn’t thinking straight. I don’t think deep down I would have ever done it [retired].
“I said years ago when City wanted me to have a new challenge, I said ‘I am going to fight’. That’s all I have known since I was a kid – why should I stop that now?
“So yes, there is that fight in me and that winning mentality that doesn’t want to stop.”
Stones is in the Three Lions squad for Thursday’s friendly against Wales at Wembley and the World Cup qualifier against Latvia the following Tuesday, which could see Tuchel’s side all but book their place at next summer’s finals with a victory.
And, despite the injury woes, the defender insisted his love for playing for his country has never dwindled.
“My love for England, I think it’s difficult to put into words. I love England so much – I love playing for England,” Stones said.
“I have had some of the best moments in my career playing for England [and at] tournaments.”