This archive report was first published on 8 July 2020.
Manchester City's John Stones has struggled with form and fitness issues since joining the club in 2016, falling behind other centre backs in the pecking order.
Despite this, manager Pep Guardiola has expressed his confidence in Stones' abilities, stating that he is 'more than delighted' with the player as a person and a professional.
Guardiola has said that he will sit down with Stones at the end of the season to discuss his future, acknowledging that the player's wish may not align with his own or the club's.
Stones has been limited to just 12 league appearances this season due to an ankle injury, and Guardiola hopes that he will be able to return to full fitness and play a key role for the team.
Guardiola has praised Stones' quality, saying that he has 'never doubted' it, but has expressed concerns about the player's ability to stay fit and play regularly.
Stones is currently a target for Arsenal and his former club Everton, with his contract at Manchester City set to expire in 2022.
