When asked about the significance of Stones' availability for the team, Guardiola expressed his enthusiasm, saying: “Massively.”
Guardiola highlighted the importance of Stones' role in the team, especially during their successful campaigns in the past. He noted that Stones was a crucial player during the team's Treble and quadruple-winning seasons.
However, last season, Stones was limited to playing less than 30% of the team's games due to injuries. Guardiola emphasized the need for Stones to be fully fit and available for the team.
Guardiola is optimistic that Stones will be able to regain his fitness level. He mentioned that Stones played only the first 45 minutes of the Club World Cup and that the team needs him to be at his best.
Despite having other good central defenders, Guardiola emphasized that the team relies on Stones to perform well.