The German midfielder scored the quickest ever goal in an FA Cup final with a stunning volley after just 12 seconds before hitting a second half winner in front of the jubilant City fans.
Gundogan has a happy habit of scoring big goals, also scoring twice on the final day of the 2021/22 Premier League season when we beat Aston Villa 3-2 to clinch the title, and Dias praised him as a player and a person.
“A magician, a special player,” the Portuguese defender said about his team-mate.
“This is my third season with him, so I know him quite well and what he’s capable of - even though he’s always able to surprise me and everyone.
“He’s just an amazing player and an even better person.”
COUNTDOWN TO THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL
Dias has won the Premier League title in each of his three seasons since moving to the Club from Benfica but was delighted to claim his first FA Cup winners’ medal.
And he said it was a special moment to win at Wembley and was proud of how City were again able to step up when presented with a big test.
“It’s special to make it two [trophies] with the Premier League too and now it makes it possible to make it three,” Dias added. “It’s a special feeling.
“Since I came to England the FA Cup was missing and it’s definitely very special to win this trophy. This means a lot to all of us - the club, the fans, everyone.
“I’ve seen shows, series and movies about the FA Cup. I’ve got the feeling that you should have when you play in this competition. I’m very happy.
“A final will always be tight - no matter who is playing against who. From our experience, you are only favourites [to win the game] when you step out onto the pitch and show who you are.
“That’s the main focus we all need to have, and we showed it again. We all knew this was not going to be an easy game.”
After celebrating the 2-1 win over United, the focus will quickly switch to Inter and our Champions League final on Saturday.
Dias is expecting another difficult game but says the players will give it everything to be prepared for the big night in Istanbul.
“It’s something very special and we’ll be focused all in,” he said. “We have the week to think about it and prepare it.
“It will be a very difficult game. When it comes to a final, it’s always different. We will do our best to be ready for it.”
