Inter has finalized the arrival of John Stones, the English defender who became a free agent after leaving Manchester City. The player has accepted the Nerazzurri’s offer and will soon officially wear the Inter shirt. As reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Englishman brings with him a wealth of important experience: “There is a John Stones on the pitch and one in the locker room. For Guardiola, who worked with him for 10 years, he was a point of reference everywhere, in both dimensions. Of course, he became a leader, but the attitude was never lacking. Inter now gets the complete package: a defender who is immediately ready and experienced, and a man of substance for the team.”

Versatility is one of the central defender’s strengths. Stones has played several roles during his career: central defender, right back, and even defensive midfielder just in front of the backline, where he played alongside Rodri. Standing 188 centimeters tall, he dominates in the air and actively participates in building up play. Injuries have sometimes limited his consistency, but have never affected his overall value.

In Chivu’s 3-5-2, the Englishman would be positioned among the three central defenders, leaving behind the role in a four-man line. His presence would also offer tactical variations that the Romanian coach could exploit. In terms of age and résumé, Stones inherits the quota of experience left vacant by the departures of Acerbi and De Vrij. The first option would see him at the center of defense, with Akanji moved to the right, or paired with Bisseck when the Swiss player is rested.

The connection with Akanji is an added value. The two shared the pitch at City in 58 matches, for a total of 3,777 minutes. Gazzetta highlights: “The feeling between His Majesty’s defender and Akanji is something ancient. When the Swiss, back in the Manchester days, was called upon to move up to midfield, he said he had watched some of Stones’ matches in that role. John had played there before him and Manuel took inspiration from him: ‘When I found out I would have to play my first game in midfield, I watched videos of John to see how he interpreted that role, trying to adapt everything to my style. I think I improved match after match,’ admitted the Nerazzurri player.” Chivu had already tried to move Akanji up to midfield last season, in a phase that required greater ball management.

The reunion between the two former City teammates could prove to be a valuable element for Inter’s defensive balance. Stones brings international experience, tactical versatility, and a mentality forged by years at the highest level. Inter secures a complete defender, ready to integrate into the system and offer different solutions depending on the needs of the match.

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