John Stones World Cup Fitness: Guardiola Confirms Readiness For England

Pep Guardiola insists John Stones will be ready for England at the World Cup, even as speculation grows about a possible Manchester City exit. Despite a season hit by injuries and limited minutes, Guardiola is clear that Stones can still reach peak form before the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The defender has featured only 15 times for Manchester City in all competitions during the 2025-26 campaign. Since January, Stones has played just 155 minutes, both outings arriving in the FA Cup. His most recent appearance comes in the FA Cup quarter-final against Newcastle United, while his last Premier League start dates back to December.

Guardiola is asked directly if Stones will be fit for the upcoming World Cup. The response highlights full trust in the player, despite the limited pitch time this season. Guardiola answers: "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."

Reports this week claim John Stones is expected to leave Manchester City when the current season ends and his contract runs out. City have not issued any formal confirmation, yet the discussions place attention on Stones' availability record. Guardiola indicates that fitness concerns have shaped the club's internal thinking about the squad.

Guardiola explains the broader approach to selection and fitness demands in the closing stretch of the season. The manager says: "I only want fit and unfortunately, like last season, a lot of the time it is not possible, said Guardiola. 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."

Stones, now 31, joined Manchester City in 2016 and becomes part of a side that collects 14 major trophies during that period. The defender plays a central role in City's treble success in 2022-23. That history strengthens Guardiola's belief that, once fully sharp, Stones still offers high quality to England at international level.

England's World Cup schedule begins against Croatia on 17 June, with Ghana and Panama also in Group L. The group stage demands reliable options in central defence, an area where Stones has previously been key. Gareth Southgate will weigh Stones' match rhythm against long-term understanding within England's back line.

John Stones World Cup England Manchester City group details

England's group opponents and opening fixture details are set, giving structure to Stones' international target. The group composition is as follows:

With the World Cup drawing closer, focus stays on whether John Stones can build minutes before the season ends and maintain fitness through Manchester City's remaining fixtures. Guardiola's comments underline confidence in Stones' level when healthy, while uncertainty around the defender's club future continues alongside England's preparations for Group L.