Both were recognised for their exploits across the calendar year by their fellow professionals at a virtual event in Zurich.
The City duo played an essential role in our march to a Premier League and Carabao Cup double in 2021, not to mention a maiden Champions League final appearance.
And while De Bruyne was thrilled to be included once again, he also emphasised the importance of both Dias and his City teammates in his individual achievement.
He said: “It’s always nice to be recognised as a player and to have some of my teammates in there means we did well as individuals but also as a team because they help me to become the best player that I can be.
“(Ruben Dias has) been great, he came in last year and to be a new player and perform the way he did was massive for us.
“He picked up the team on the back and he deserves it… (but) don’t tell him I said that!”
Dias echoed his teammates’ sentiments, highlighting the impact that the Belgian has had on City’s success.
The Portuguese defender also explained the levels of commitment needed to perform at the highest level on a weekly basis.
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“It’s a sign of respect for the work I’ve done, especially last season. I want to say thank you to everyone who has voted for me and everyone else.
“It’s important that you do, and you forget, and you want more. To play at this level every three days it’s just thinking about the next one and the next one.
“Kevin is a player who can surprise you every second of the game. He sees things not many of us see.
“I’d say the vision he has and the understanding of the game, he’s a player who knows what the game needs and because of that I think he deserves to be there.”
Congratulations to Kevin and Ruben for their inclusion in the FIFPro World XI for 2021.
Hear the City duo’s thoughts on receiving their award via the video above...
