England defender John Stones has joined Italian champions Inter Milan on a free transfer, having left Manchester City at the end of June.
The 32-year-old made 295 appearances and scored 19 goals for the Citizens, winning the Premier League and Champions League among numerous other titles after signing from Everton for £47.5 million in 2016.
Stones reportedly attracted interest from the likes of Chelsea and Arsenal before he decided to continue his career in Italy.
Inter, meanwhile, secured a 21st Serie A title last season under the tutelage of Cristian Chivu and begin their scudetto defence against promoted Monza on August 22.
New chapter in Italy
A statement on the Inter website said: “After 32 years in England, John Stones is ready for a new chapter in Milano, Italy.
“A new environment, a new league and a new challenge, backed by all the experience he has gained throughout his career.
“For the first time, he will no longer wear just blue, but black and blue.
“From the green fields of Barnsley to the San Siro pitch, after making history in Manchester, John Stones is ready for his next chapter at Inter.”
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Perfect place to grow
In an exclusive interview with Inter TV, Stones stated: “I have so many emotions.
“I’m really happy and proud, excited to start this new chapter and this new journey.
“I couldn’t imagine a better place to do it.”
Immense hunger to win
Asked what he brings to the table, the Englishman explained: “I have an immense hunger to win more.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to win many trophies throughout my career, and I want to draw on that experience here to help the team and the club.
“At the same time, I want to keep learning and growing as a footballer, working with the coach and also with [assistant coach Aleksandar] Kolarov, who was my team-mate at City.
“I’m really excited – I hope to bring my skills to the team, and I want to learn new things, understand a new way of playing and experience a new league.”
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Fight for every trophy
On his goals at Inter, Stones added: “I think the players and the club set the bar very high last season, so we have to start from there.
“I’m here to win and fight for every trophy.
“That has always been my mentality wherever I’ve played, and I’m convinced we can achieve it.
“We have to keep aiming for the very top.”
Message for the fans
The defender also had a message for the fans, saying: “I can’t wait to see you all, to meet as many of you as possible, to play in front of you and hopefully to create some incredible memories together.
“I’m certain we will.
“I want to thank you for your support even before meeting you, because I know how passionate you are about this club and these players.
“I promise I’ll wear this shirt with pride and give everything for the club and my team-mates.”
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