Ben Gibson has shed light on the decisive conversations with Jon Walters and Steven Schumacher that led to his summer transfer to Stoke City.
After four years with Norwich City, where he played a crucial role in their journey to the Championship play-offs, Gibson had numerous offers. However, he needed to understand the inner workings of Stoke City before making his decision. His relationship with Walters, now the club’s sporting director and a former teammate at Burnley, was instrumental in this process. Walters’ straightforward discussions provided the clarity Gibson needed.
Gibson emphasized that while he was aware of Stoke City’s rich history, state-of-the-art facilities, and committed owners, what truly mattered to him was the club’s direction and goals. He was adamant that he wouldn’t have joined if the aim was merely to achieve a mid-table finish in the Championship. The clear commitment and ambition he saw in the club convinced him that Stoke City was aiming higher.
Additionally, Gibson had an in-depth conversation with head coach Steven Schumacher, ensuring that everyone at the club was on the same page. Schumacher’s understanding of Gibson’s capabilities and the clear vision he presented were crucial factors in Gibson’s decision. These discussions assured him that his role and the club’s objectives were perfectly aligned.
Gibson’s excitement for the upcoming season is palpable. He highlighted the importance of being part of a club with aligned goals and is eager to contribute to Stoke City’s success. Having consistently aimed for Premier League competition throughout his career, he hopes to bring that experience and drive to his new team.
In summary, the transparent and goal-oriented conversations with Jon Walters and Steven Schumacher were pivotal in Gibson’s decision to join Stoke City. He is looking forward to helping the team achieve their ambitions and making a significant impact in the upcoming season.
