"Guardiola stated, 'Definitely. He has been injured many times; now he is back. I cannot judge his performance because he has been a little bit out. I don't have doubts with John. When he reaches his level, he is a top central defender.'"
"'I only want fit and unfortunately, like last season, a lot of the time it is not possible,' Guardiola said, hinting that Stones' fitness record was a factor in the decision regarding his future."
"'Still, we have [the FA Cup semi-final against Southampton], and we have five, potentially six [games]. He is a lovely, incredible team-mate. But we will see what happens.'"
John Stones has faced injury challenges this season, with limited appearances for Manchester City. Guardiola believes Stones will be ready for the World Cup. Stones has played only 155 minutes in 2025-26, with his last Premier League start in December. Guardiola expressed confidence in Stones' abilities, stating he is a top central defender when fit. Reports suggest Stones may leave City after this season, with Guardiola indicating fitness issues influenced the decision. England's World Cup campaign starts against Croatia on June 17.
Read at Soccer News
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