The Portuguese defender spoke candidly to an audience of 100 fans at a special ‘Defending With Dias’ event in support of City in the Community (CITC) at the Etihad stadium.
The exclusive event brought fans together for a premium dining experience and the rare opportunity to hear directly from one of the Club’s captains in an intimate setting.
Guests were treated to a three-course meal before Dias took to the stage for a live on-stage conversation, sharing insights into his career, leadership journey and life at City.
During the evening, Dias reflected on his experiences both on and off the pitch, speaking openly about finding enhanced purpose and his relentless desire to win.
During the Q&A, Dias said: “Not too long ago, I dug deeper into myself and looked at what I wanted to achieve and be associated to, one of the main things that came up most often was education.
“City in the Community has provided me with a way to focus on this vision of influencing education and to keep on supporting young people.
“I consider what the charity does as huge in the community.
“The importance of young kids in society is massive, and I am finding ways to do as much as I can do to help.
“I think that all of this that I am pursuing is making me stronger, and it is the right way to use my influence, it gives me purpose and it is very much something worth fighting for.”
Dias also spoke about his leadership mentality and relentless desire to win, tracing it back to his childhood.
He said: “It’s just in me to pursue the best possible way to win a game, ultimately, it is just who I am.
“I look at the football pitch, and it has been the same since I was on trial at Benfica, all I wanted to do was win the game.
“Even today after winning so much, that mentality stays the same, as no matter what happens I always come back to this way of living.”
Attendees also had the opportunity to take part in a live auction and raffle featuring a selection of unique prizes, with all profits supporting the charity’s work across Greater Manchester. A professional photo opportunity with Dias ensured supporters left with a lasting memento from the occasion.
CITC CEO, Mike Geary, added: “Events like this demonstrate the unique power of our connection to the Club and its players.
“We are incredibly grateful to Ruben for giving his time so generously, and to every supporter who joined us on the night.
“At City in the Community, our purpose is to empower healthier lives through football.
“The funds and awareness raised through evenings like this enable us to continue delivering vital programmes for children, young people and families across Greater Manchester.
“We simply couldn’t do it without this level of support.”
City in the Community empowers healthier lives through football. To find out more, visit www.mancity.com/CITC or follow @citcmancity.
