- John Stones opens up on departure
- Brands fan reception ‘surreal’
- Offers praise to fellow defender
John Stones has promised to return as a fan once he leaves Manchester City, and there is one player in particular he is keen to keep watching.
There is only one match left for Man City before John Stones exits the club, with his contract expiring this summer.
The defender has spent a decade of his career at the Etihad Stadium, making 294 appearances for the Sky Blues.
However, Stones has been in a reduced role this season, starting only 12 matches. Therefore, it was unsurprising when City announced his exit.
John Stones will return to the Etihad Stadium
Speaking to The National News, Stones has addressed the ‘surreal’ reception he received while making a brief appearance against Crystal Palace.
The centre-back will be leaving after the Aston Villa game this Sunday, but he has promised to come back to support the team.
“We’ve got one more [match] against [Aston] Villa but I’m not one for the spotlight,” Stones said.
“I don’t think it has fully sunk in yet that I will be going. Moving clubs in football is part of the sport but I have made genuine friendships over a decade here.
“People who know me know how much I have loved it and still love it. Villa won’t be goodbye; it will be a ‘see you later’.”
He added: “This is my club forever and my team. I will be excited to come back once I’ve retired and support from the stands and watch from a fan’s perspective.”
Stones wants to keep watching Abdukodir Khusanov’s development
While Stones is eager to keep an eye on all his teammates once he departs Man City, he has given a special mention to Abdukodir Khusanov.
The Uzbekistan international has become a regular starter at the Citizens, and Stones is anticipating even more growth from him in the coming seasons.
“The central defenders I’m leaving behind, like all the squad, are superstars,” Stones continued.
“They all have their own superpowers. Khusa, for instance, came over to England without much of the language, still a young boy, had a debut that was tricky and has been so good since. He’s grown and flourished.
“His speed and awareness across the back four is incredible. I look forward to seeing that continued growth.”
Khusanov will face lots of competition at Man City next season
With Stones leaving, as well as rumours going around about Nathan Ake and Josko Gvardiol, Man City could look to add another centre-back to their ranks this summer.
Despite this, they already have Marc Guehi and Ruben Dias, while Vitor Reis will be returning from his loan move at Girona.
Then there is also Max Alleyne, who might be given more chances in the first-team after the summer, provided he avoids being loaned out.
Therefore, Khusanov will need to be consistent and show he can step up in the biggest and most important matches.
The 22-year-old could do with committing fewer fouls, particularly those which lead to yellow cards.
He will want to work on this over the summer, as there will be limited spaces at the heart of City’s defence during the next campaign.
