John Stones is widely expected to part ways with Manchester City once his contract runs out in June, bringing to a close a remarkable decade‑long tenure at the club. The English centre‑back has amassed an impressive trophy cabinet during his time in Manchester, having lifted the UEFA Champions League, six Premier League crowns, two FA Cups, three Carabao Cups and a UEFA Super Cup since arriving from Everton in the summer of 2016. Now 31 years old, Stones still has the chance to add a couple more pieces of silverware to his collection before he walks away as a free agent.
City are still in contention for a historic treble this season, meaning a final Premier League title and another FA Cup could be added to his résumé before his departure. His exit will mirror that of fellow midfielder Bernardo Silva, who was confirmed last week to be leaving the Etihad when his own contract expires on 30 June. Silva, who joined City from Monaco in 2017 – a year after Stones – has also spent nine seasons in Manchester and will be one of the most senior players to exit the squad this summer.
The departure was officially announced by Pep Lijnders, City’s assistant coach, who surprised fans in April by stating, “every good story comes to an end.” The club later reiterated the news, confirming that Silva’s contract will not be renewed. Both Barcelona and Juventus have already been linked with the Portuguese playmaker, and they are among a host of clubs that have expressed interest in securing his services on a free transfer.
Silva’s future, however, remains open‑ended. While the Spanish giants and the Italian side are keen, other destinations have also emerged in the speculation.
The 31‑year‑old has been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League, where a number of high‑profile European stars have recently headed, as well as a possible stint in Major League Soccer in the United States, a league that has become an attractive option for seasoned internationals seeking a new challenge. Meanwhile, the situation surrounding midfielder Rodri is still unresolved. His contract runs until the summer of 2027, but City would prefer to lock him down on a new deal, according to Sky Sports News.
In late March, the Spanish international admitted that he cannot simply ignore interest from the world’s biggest clubs, especially after Real Madrid’s name was floated in a recent interview with Spanish radio. Rodri, who previously played for City’s city rivals Atlético Madrid, acknowledged that such a move would be controversial, noting, “There are other players who have taken that path.” He went on to explain his mindset: “Not directly, but over time. You can’t turn down the best clubs in the world.
I would like to return to LaLiga, yes, of course. LaLiga is where I started.
I still follow it, not as much as before, but I still follow it. But right now, I am very happy here in the Premier League. I have one year left on my contract at City; there will come a point when we have to sit down, talk, and discuss things.” Rodri’s comments highlight the delicate balance City must strike between retaining key talent and managing the financial realities of modern football. If the midfielder eventually chooses to leave, it would represent another significant shift in Pep Guardiola’s squad, following the imminent exits of both Stones and Silva.
Guardiola’s own future is also a subject of intense speculation. With at least two long‑serving stalwarts set to depart, the manager may be contemplating a broader squad overhaul.
The potential loss of Stones, a defender who has been integral to City’s back‑line for ten years, and Silva, a creative engine in midfield, could prompt Guardiola to look for fresh faces or promote academy graduates to fill the gaps. Beyond the immediate personnel changes, the club’s strategic direction will likely be influenced by its ambition to remain competitive on all fronts.
City are still chasing a treble this season, and the departure of experienced players could affect depth, especially in the latter stages of the Champions League and domestic cup competitions. Yet, the financial freedom that comes with free‑transfer exits may allow the club to reinvest in emerging talent or target marquee signings that fit Guardiola’s tactical philosophy. Fans can stay updated on the latest transfer rumors and club news by following Sky Sports’ coverage, which offers live streams of Premier League matches, a dedicated app for on‑the‑go viewing, and regular bulletins on the Etihad’s evolving roster.
As the summer transfer window approaches, the football world will be watching closely to see where Stones, Silva and possibly Rodri will end up, and how Manchester City will reshape its squad for the challenges ahead. In the meantime, supporters are encouraged to engage with the club’s digital platforms, watch highlights, and participate in promotional activities such as the Super 6 competition, which offers a chance to win a £250,000 prize pool.
The upcoming months promise a period of transition, anticipation, and excitement for both City and its global fan base.