John Stones has admitted that there were moments he doubted whether his career could continue amid a series of injury problems over the past two years.

The Manchester City and England centre-back made only six Premier League starts in the 2024-25 season due to thigh, foot, and other undisclosed issues.

This followed a two-month absence at the start of the previous season caused by a hip injury.

These setbacks have stopped the 31-year-old from building on his outstanding 2022-23 season, where he played a hybrid defense-midfield role and helped City win the treble.

Stones said: "Yes, there have been points where you think: you've given all this effort, dedicating your life to football, especially how I approach it, giving everything on and off the pitch to be ready—and those are the dark days."

"I think everyone's been through them and wonders: 'Why is this happening?' You wish things would go differently. It's self-doubt and many other challenges."

"It's frustrating for me. I put a lot of pressure on myself and find it mentally very challenging."

"I've had some very low points in the past season. I just have to try to come back, but when these issues keep happening, it's hard to see the end of the tunnel."

"All of us face different upbringings and challenges in life—what do we do in those situations? Fight or give up?"

"I was a fighter from a young age. In difficult moments, you have to look at the bigger picture, realize your morals and beliefs, and fight to make it worthwhile."