England defender John Stones has joined Serie A champions Inter Milan, concluding a decade-long stint filled with titles at Manchester City.
The 32-year-old Stones, who became a free agent when his contract with City expired in June, has signed a two-year deal with Inter valued at approximately €4 million ($4.6 million / £3.4 million) per season.
During his time at City, Stones was instrumental in securing six Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy, among other honors.
“I’m very eager to win again,” he shared on Inter’s website. “I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have had so much success in the past. I want to bring that experience here to support the team and the club, while continuing to learn and develop as a player.”
“I’m really excited,” Stones added. “I hope to contribute all of my qualities, and I’m very receptive to learning new strategies and approaches in football as well as adapting to a new league.”
Stones arrives in Italy after playing a significant role in leading England to the World Cup semifinals, amassing 94 caps for his national team.
Initially coming through Barnsley’s youth academy, Stones spent three years at Everton before securing a transfer to Manchester City, where he became a vital player in Pep Guardiola’s squad.
This marks the first time Stones has moved abroad in his career, joining a trend of English talents making the leap to international clubs, including World Cup stars Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane, who currently play for Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, respectively.
Stones becomes the second defender to transition from the Etihad Stadium to San Siro this summer, following Manuel Akanji‘s permanent loan move.
Inter announced the signing through their website, stating: “After 32 years in England, John Stones is ready to embark on a new chapter in Milan, Italy. He looks forward to a new environment, a different league, and fresh challenges, leveraging all the experience he has gained throughout his career.”
“For the first time, he will don black and blue instead of blue. From the lush fields of Barnsley to the San Siro pitch, after making history in Manchester, John Stones is prepared for his next adventure at Inter.”
After facing injuries that limited him to just nine Premier League appearances last season, Stones aims to make a more substantial impact this time around.
Contributions from the Associated Press and PA aided in this report.