That was Pep Guardiola’s assessment after watching the 26-year-old produce another masterful display at centre-half as we beat Southampton 1-0 at St Mary’s.
Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side, who began the day fourth in the table, were tough opponents, with their pace and quality from setpieces meaning City could not afford to rest.
But a battling performance and a brilliant Raheem Sterling goal saw us take all three points and move up to fifth in the table.
Stones was once again a candidate for man of the match, and Guardiola says his renaissance has pleased everyone in the City first-team setup.
“Excellent. He is back,” Guardiola said when asked to sum up Stones’ performance.
“He turned his situation perfectly.
“He played really well, with Ruben as well, and Kyle and Joao.
“He did it himself. He is one of the first players we signed when we arrived here. He knows exactly what we have to do.
“He could not do it in previous years but now he has done it and he has done it himself.
“His private life is settled, he has no injuries - we are delighted because he is an incredibly nice person.
“His mum and dad must be so proud of what a nice person he is. His daughter has a great father.
“We are delighted. But he is just in the beginning and he has to continue.”
Watch the first part of Pep’s post-match press conference above!
And join us right here on ManCity.com tomorrow evening at 22:30 for the rest.
