Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola devised the ideal role for John Stones to thrive in. The England international’s role was crucial to the club’s treble success last season. His role has recently evolved as Stones steps up his game.

John Stones’ ability to play in midfield has always been evident. His proficiency on the ball as a defender is a noteworthy feature of his game. That quality was what made Pep Guardiola’s tactical change last season such a success.

Stones can demonstrate his enormous talent in midfield by drifting into it from defence when City has possession. His abilities contribute to Manchester City’s powerful midfield. When the champions have possession, playing beside Rodri provides them with a midfield wall. The double pivot enables players like Kevin De Bruyne, Phil Foden, Bernardo Silva, Erling Haaland, and others to achieve their best at the top of the pitch. They can attack knowing that Stones and Rodri will clean up after them. It has become an important tool in the treble winner’s arsenal.

John Stones has moved further forward in Manchester City’s recent victories over Bournemouth and Luton Town. The game of the England international has now become an offensive weapon for Pep Guardiola’s team. That aspect of his game has shown how important Stones is to Manchester City’s success.

Speaking with the Official Manchester City podcast, John Stones stated that he was eager to play the job assigned to him by Pep Guardiola from the outset. He went on to say that his new job has given him a better understanding of his colleagues’ roles in midfield. He explained: “From the beginning. It comes down to learning. Playing in there allows you to appreciate other people’s roles and see them from a new perspective. You understand when I give a pass to a midfielder but, as the receiver, you realise it’s the wrong pass or the wrong position to provide it. You value someone else’s involvement on the team.”

Last season, Pep Guardiola established an excellent role for John Stones to thrive. His new role was critical to Manchester City’s treble success last season and could be even more important this season as the club looks to protect it. Guardiola originated the job, but John Stones has made it his own over the last year. Stone’s brilliance was always obvious, but his incredible intelligence as a player is also a noticeable aspect of his game.