Dias developing into a 'real captaincy candidate' at Man City

The Portuguese did an excellent job at stabilizing the Sky Blues backline after his arrival to the Etihad last summer.

Ruben Dias is fast developing into a “real captaincy candidate” at Manchester City, according to the club’s former defender Richard Dunne.

Dias was a linchpin in the Man City side that ran away with the Premier League title last season.

Sitting beside John Stones at the heart of their defense, the former Benfica man was fundamental to Pep Guardiola’s side maintaining a watertight defense throughout the season.

The Sky Blues finished let in 32 league goals in total in the last time out – a defensive record bettered by only Ligue 1 champions Lille and runners-up Paris Saint-Germain in the top 5 European leagues.

Many have likened the 2021 FWA Footballer of the Year recipient to club legend Vincent Kompany, with both the defenders known for their composed and collected demeanor and their exceptional leadership qualities.

◉ The first defender since Steve Nicol in 1989

◉ The second Portuguese winner after Cristiano Ronaldo

◉ The third winner in their first season in England

◉ The youngest winner since Gareth Bale

Rúben Dias: 2020/21 FWA Footballer of the Year. pic.twitter.com/mTsB50O4fb
— Squawka Football (@Squawka) May 20, 2021

“He’ll be looking to start the season well, continue to progress because as a centre back there was nobody near him last season,” Dunne told of Dias, speaking to the official Man City media.

“You’d imagine he’s settled in and feels more comfortable, so he can improve again. It’s very important he starts well and continues the form from last season.

“The other players will know him and understand what he’s good and what to expect, so let’s hope that continues.

“Although he’s still very young, he’s got that stature and aura about him. Looking ahead, I think he could be a real captaincy candidate going forward in the next few years.”