Manchester City captain Ruben Dias was given the chance to discuss the club’s guilty verdict on Wednesday afternoon.
The defender is currently away with Portugal and faced the media ahead of their next Nations League match. Unsurprisingly, City’s situation came up.
Also unsurprisingly, Dias had no interest in getting involved. He made it clear his focus was entirely on international duty.
“I understand the question”
The press conference was shown live and there was a Manchester City mention.
“I understand the question, but I’m not going to comment on anything that isn’t related to the national team,” Dias said.
That was that. No defence of the club, no criticism and no attempt to explain the situation.
As you may know, Manchester City maintain their innocence in the case and have confirmed they will appeal the decision. Dias, meanwhile, has chosen to stay well away from the subject while representing Portugal.
| Rúben Dias — trophies with Manchester City | Winning seasons or year | Total |
|---|---|---|
| Premier League | 2020/21, 2021/22, 2022/23, 2023/24 | 4 |
| FA Cup | 2022/23, 2025/26 | 2 |
| League Cup | 2020/21, 2025/26 | 2 |
| UEFA Champions League | 2022/23 | 1 |
| UEFA Super Cup | 2023 | 1 |
| FIFA Club World Cup | 2023 | 1 |
| Community Shield | 2024 | 1 |
| Total | 12 |
Guardiola went the other way
Pep Guardiola has taken a very different approach. The former Manchester City manager publicly backed the club on Wednesday, making his feelings very clear after the verdict.
“I want every Manchester City fan around the world to know that I am here; more than ever,” Guardiola said.
“I am, always have been, always will, be behind my club, my owner, my chairman, Ferran, the players, staff, Enzo [Maresca] and you, our unique supporters.
“Let me be clear: we will get through this together. I love you all”, was Guardiola’s message.
The reactions keep coming. Former City chairman David Bernstein has gone in the opposite direction. He has called for severe punishment following the commission’s findings, with expulsion from the Premier League among the possibilities he discussed.
Well, Dias isn’t joining either side of that public debate for now. The Manchester City captain was asked directly about the biggest story surrounding his club. He acknowledged the question and quickly shut the door on it.
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