The Portuguese centre-back, who was also named the 2021 Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year, has enjoyed a dream debut campaign, playing a crucial role in City’s success.
The 24-year-old - signed from Benfica last summer - has been an integral cog in Pep Guardiola‘s relentless, record-breaking machine, clocking 49 appearances and scoring two goals.
A commanding presence with a deep-rooted passion and strong winning mentality, Dias’ influence has helped to seal a watertight defence, which has conceded the fewest Premier League goals.
In addition to lifting the league trophy and our fourth successive Carabao Cup, Dias has also been key in our Champions League campaign. Since falling behind in our opening day win over Porto, City did not concede another goal until the quarter-final stage and kept another clean sheet in the last four second leg triumph over Paris Saint-Germain.
This year saw a record number of fan votes. Asked how it felt to have won the award in his debut season, Dias expressed his gratitude to his teammates.
“I’m very pleased but I won’t let go the fact that I’m only here receiving this because we won the Premier League, the Carabao Cup and we’re in the Final of the Champions League,” he declared.
“Big credit goes to my teammates, especially because I’m a defender. For a defender to win this, it’s mainly because of the team. Big thanks to all of my teammates.
“For a kid that before all of it was a fan and dreamed of becoming one of the stars, I am really happy to be here and to have the opportunity to play with all the guys I play with in my team.”
Speaking to CityTV, Dias also shared his excitement for the long-awaited return of fans and the Champions League Final, talked fitness and hailed the influence of Pep Guardiola.
Watch the video above to hear what Ruben had to say...
