Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola paid an emotional tribute to defender John Stones on 1 May, acknowledging the England international's imminent departure at the end of the season and his pivotal role in the club's unprecedented success over the past decade. Guardiola's candid remarks underscored the personal bond and professional respect that defined their relationship since Stones' arrival in 2016.

Guardiola's memories of Stones

In a press conference, Guardiola reflected on their first encounter, recalling a meeting at his brother's house in London when Stones was still a young prospect. "One of the first times I remember perfectly travelling to London to meet him at my brother's house. I remember his face in that first moment; he was young," Guardiola said. The manager emphasised that Stones evolved into an indispensable figure during City's most dominant period, noting that "there are a few players that without them we cannot understand what has happened in this period together, and he is one of them."

A defining Champions League performance

Guardiola singled out Stones' display in the UEFA Champions League final in Istanbul as a watershed moment that exemplified his temperament under pressure. "He was the best player by far in the Champions League final in Istanbul. That shows his huge personality," Guardiola said. The performance cemented Stones' legacy as a player capable of delivering when the stakes were highest, particularly during City's 2023 treble-winning campaign.

The emotional farewell

Acknowledging the personal toll of losing such a long-serving player, Guardiola drew a parallel to fellow departing midfielder Bernardo Silva. "Like Bernardo, part of me and ourselves is leaving," he said, capturing the emotional weight of the moment. Guardiola expressed optimism that Stones would regain full match fitness before his exit, allowing him to finish his City career on a high note.

Stones' trophy-laden legacy

Over 293 appearances for City, Stones has amassed 19 major trophies, including six Premier League titles, one UEFA Champions League, two FA Cups, five Carabao Cups, three Community Shields, a FIFA Club World Cup, and a UEFA Super Cup winner's medal. He was instrumental in the 2023 treble, starting both the FA Cup final against Manchester United and the Champions League final against Inter Milan.

Stones' own farewell

Stones announced his departure through an emotional Instagram video on Tuesday, thanking the club and supporters for a transformative decade. "It has been my home for the past 10 years, and it will be my home for the rest of my life. It has been a rollercoaster in many ways. I came as a kid and now leaving as a man — becoming a father, a husband and, on the pitch, a very fulfilled player," he said. His words underscored the personal growth and professional achievement that defined his Manchester City journey.