The England defender has enjoyed a superb campaign, playing an integral part of the Premier League title triumph, Carabao Cup win and journey to the Champions League final.
Now, on the eve of a seismic clash with Chelsea in Porto, Stones admits the focus and drive of his team-mates leaves him in awe.
“The winning mentality of the boys is incredible,” said Stones.
“We took it a game at a time, focused all our energy and played every game as if it were a final. The teams we have played against and knocked out of the Champions League is something in itself.
“We have not done it the easy way at all. We have won 11 games in the Champions League [this season] and it has been a progression every year for me and as a team.
“The winning mentality of the boys is incredible and the desire to keep going, keep winning and the addiction of winning trophies is something that I cannot describe.
“The consistency as well, it is something so difficult as a team. We have been fighting in four competitions for so long. I know we didn’t make it to an FA Cup final but to make it to a semi-final is something that we should be proud of, especially when you have got a game every three days and it might be a different competition.
“Getting right to the end of three others, winning two and hopefully winning another one at the weekend, it is something that comes within the team and each player. I am probably speaking for everyone in the dressing room right now but hopefully they have the same feeling as me; pride and that desire to go and win this one.
“Now we are and we have got that chance to win it. Hopefully, we can do that. Sunday’s game against Everton has set us up really well, it was the perfect finish to the Premier League season, going into a Champions League final.
“We are going to take everything in and enjoy the occasion of being there and hopefully do everyone proud.”
Stones also reflected on a magnificent individual campaign, where he rediscovered his best form, won a regular starting berth and also his place in the England squad.
“I am extremely proud, on a personal note,” he said.
“At the start of the season, it was a difficult time for me and I think any player that is not playing isn’t happy.
“I wanted to turn that around quickly and try to get back into the team and fight for my spot.
“That gradually came and came with regular games, consistency, playing well, clean sheets and all the things that come with playing.
“To finish the season how we have and, on a personal note, staying fit for the full season in such a difficult time playing every three days and the demands it has on yourself, your body and everything that comes with that.
“To make it to a Champions League final from all the hurt and disappointment from previous years, I think we have learnt a lot and brought that to this season to get us to where we are now.”
And Stones was keen to thank his manager for the support and opportunities he has given him this season, adding: “What he has done for me and what he has taught me on the pitch has been something I hope I can only repay with my performances.
“For everyone in the club, what he has brought to Manchester City over these five years is incredible. The number of trophies, the memories, he is important on and off the pitch and I am sure he is dying to get his hands on this one for sure, which we have worked so hard for.”
