If we deem it safe to believe Pep Guardiola, which we do, defender Ruben Dias may become Manchester City captain. The Manchester City manager claims its only a matter of time before Dias seizes captainship.
Dias only joined City from Benfica in September 2020, but he’s already given depth and definition to the Citizen’s defence.
In fact, he’s become the first defender in 32 years to win the FWA Footballer of the Year award. The fact that he just did, in his first City season no less, proves his abilities in defence.
Just three months into his City career, in January, his coach Pep Guardiola gushed about signing a terrific player.
Now, per Guardiola, Dias may become Manchester City captain, if not soon then certainly one day.
Guardiola’s Words
Having already won the Premier League title, City are preparing for the Champions League final against Chelsea on May 29.
And coach Pep Guardiola recognizes the role that Dias’ exploits have played in achieving these feats.
“It wasn’t expected, honestly,” Guardiola said of Dias’ excellent campaign.
“We knew his quality but you never know what is going to happen,” he elaborated.
Pep then defined what marks Dias out as a leader: “If a defender plays for himself it’s a problem but he is thinking always about his central defensive partner, his holding midfielder, even the wingers.
“He’s a leader. To be a leader is not to be given to you by the club, it comes from inside, it’s natural.
“He is always thinking what he can do better. That is why he will have success.”
“He’s so generous, he’s a complete professional,” the City coach added. “He is 24 hours thinking about football, he is still so young.”
“I’m pretty sure in a short time, maybe I’m wrong, but his mates and backroom staff will choose him as one of the captains because he’s shown he can lead,” Pep hinted toward captainship.
“He is a guy who in the bad moments is always ready to help and he’s a man of communication on and off the pitch.
