Some Very Honest Words From Manchester City First Team Player

Highlights

• Retiring a serious option
• Feeling better now
• Honest words

Last season, Manchester City had their worst season under Pep Guardiola since his first year in charge, finishing third and trophyless, just like that inaugural season.

Despite some good form after the turn of the year, such was their poor form in the middle of the season, the best they could do was third place. This, along with 16/17, are the only two times Guardiola has ever finished outside the top two in his managerial career to date.

To cut City some slack, they had injuries to deal with. Rodri picked up an ACL injury in September, and did not return until May. Kevin De Bruyne missed a number of games, and John Stones only started six Premier League games.

Unfortunately, this is something that has impacted Stones throughout his career. His 23 league starts in his debut season at the club - 16/17 - is the highest of his time at The Etihad so far.

Then, last season - Stones felt like he'd reached breaking point. The defender told BBC Radio 5 live (via BBC Sport): "I didn't want to do it I 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."

He elaborated on his retirement considerations, saying: "My emotions were high. 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 [when he signed for the club], I said 'I am going to fight'. That's all I've ever known since I was a kid - why should I stop that now?

So yes, there is a fight in me and that winning mentality that doesn't want to stop."

From there, Stones spoke about how much he loves playing for England, and the atmosphere around camp. He spoke about how it was a no brainer to accept Thomas Tuchel's invitation to join the squad for a warm weather training camp in Spain back in June, despite the fact he wasn't in the squad due to injury.

The 31-year old could make his first appearance under Tuchel in this international break, where England will face Wales in a friendly at Wembley Stadium, before travelling to Riga in a World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.