John Stones backed the “fearless” Jack Grealish to make an immediate impact at Manchester City following his arrival from Aston Villa for a British record commission of £ 100 million.
England international Grealish was confirmed as a City player last week and made his second-half substitute debut in Sunday’s 1-0 Community Shield defeat to Leicester City.
The 25-year-old played 25 minutes in that annual curtain-raising event, managing 25 ball hits and completing 15 of his 16 passes during his time on the pitch.
He is vying to kick off City’s Premier League opening match against Tottenham next Sunday and Stones is excited about what his international teammate will bring to the squad.
“Jack is an incredible footballer. A raw talent. I think you can see he’s a little fearless in the way he sounds and very straightforward, ”Stones told City’s official website.
We only saw a little bit of him at the European Championships but when he came in everyone was thrilled to see him and he came in and gave some vital assists at key moments.
“He is a great player. Also an amazing person. He’s entering one of the best locker rooms in the non-football world, with the characters we have here and he will adapt right away.
“I’m sure he will be looking forward to being more successful here and hopefully winning some silverware.”
Stones spoke after signing a new long-term contract at Etihad Stadium that keeps him tied to City until June 2026.
The former Everton Stones defender has spent the past five seasons with City and played a pivotal role in last season’s Premier League and EFL Cup doubles.
City kept 19 goalless goals in the center-back’s 35 appearances in 2020-21 and conceded just 16 goals with him on the pitch.
The 27-year-old’s 24 blocks in 2020-21 were his highest in a single season at City, while 32 tackles and 146 steals have been above his average over the past five seasons.
It was quite the turning point for Stones, who fought for form and fitness during 2019-20 and came close to leaving the club.
And the Barnsley Academy product thanked Pep Guardiola and the City coaching staff for their confidence in him.
“I think everyone, the coaching staff, all the other staff who are here, from day one made me feel so welcome,” said Stones.
“Everyone plays an important role in our success as players. I appreciate what everyone is doing for me here as a person.
“It’s hard to say, but they had a big impact on me and it was an easy decision for me to put pen to paper again. I feel this is home and I love the place. “