John Stones sends ‘big’ Man City message, Declan Rice reacts
John Stones posted a “big” message on social media after earning a clean sheet in Man City’s 4-0 win against Newcastle.
Pep Guardiola‘s side put on a ruthless display at the Etihad Stadium on 15 February as Man City cruised to a 4-0 victory over Newcastle.
Omar Marmoush impressed Man City fans as he stole the show with a stunning first-half hat-trick. The win strengthened City’s push for a Champions League spot, overcoming a Newcastle side also battling for a top-four finish.
Stones, who has endured a frustrating season plagued by injuries, was back in the starting lineup and played a key role in securing a clean sheet. His return to form will be a welcome boost for Guardiola as City enter a crucial stage of the campaign.
After the match, the England international reflected on the performance with a positive message, celebrating the victory while making it clear that the focus must quickly shift to the challenges ahead.
Pep Guardiola needs John Stones back to his best
Stones shared an optimistic message on Instagram following City’s win, saying, “Big win at home! All focus on Wednesday now.” His post received support from players including Declan Rice and Jarrad Branthwaite, who liked the post.
It has been another challenging season for the centre-back, who has struggled with injuries, missing 16 games so far this campaign. Despite these setbacks, Paul Robinson exclusively told Football Insider that Stones remains an essential figure in Pep Guardiola’s plans, even though the injuries have disrupted his momentum.
This season, he has still managed to make 19 appearances, contributing three goals and two assists. However, he joined the lengthy injury list earlier in the season alongside defenders Ruben Dias and Manuel Akanji.
With the addition of new reinforcements in the January transfer window, Guardiola is likely to rotate his defence more often to manage player fitness.
City signed 20-year-old Abdukodir Khusanov from French side Lens and 19-year-old Victor Reis, both of whom can play at centre-back, either alongside Stones or in rotation with him.
Man City could face early Champions League exit
Stones mentioned in his post that there is now “focus” on Wednesday, when his side will face Real Madrid in the second leg of the Champions League play-off round, needing to overturn a one-goal deficit after a 3-2 defeat in the first leg.
The pressure is mounting on Guardiola’s side to produce a strong performance at the Santiago Bernabeu. Man City fans were critical of certain players, including Mateo Kovacic, after the first-leg loss, but there is still hope that the team can turn things around.
With Stones back to full fitness and coming off a dominant 4-0 victory against Newcastle, City will feel confident despite the tough challenge ahead.