A Manchester City centre-back set the tone for his team against Liverpool | OneFootball

At his best, Ruben Dias is an inspirational figure for Manchester City. It is no coincidence that Pep Guardiola’s side looks to be a more formidable proposition when the Portuguese centre-back is in top form. This season has seen Ruben Dias play at a level that is near his best. Dias put in an inspirational performance in the heart of Manchester City’s defence yesterday during their 3-nil win over Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium yesterday. Dias put his body on the line and led from the front for his team as they picked up a massive three points against a fierce rival.

Ruben Dias was at the heart of a strong Manchester City defensive performance against Liverpool.

It took until the 76th minute yesterday for Liverpool to have a shot on target at the Etihad. Gianluigi Donnarumma denied a stinging Dominik Szoboslai strike. Before that shot came, Manchester City defended resolutely throughout yesterday’s match. Ruben Dias played an important role in City’s strong defensive display.

The Portuguese international wouldn’t let Liverpool through yesterday. Dias put his body on the line and was willing to throw himself in front of shots and into a challenge to keep Arne Slot’s side out. If any performance summed up what Ruben Dias adds to this Manchester City lineup it was his performance yesterday. Ruben Dias makes his teammates walk taller when he is leading the way. He did that yesterday as Josko Gvardiol, Nico O’Reilly, and Matheus Nunes all stood up to be counted at the back with their defensive leader leading the charge.

Ruben Dias said his team lives for matches like yesterday’s clash with Liverpool and his performance typified this.

In an interview published on mancity.com, Ruben Dias explained that his team lives for big matches like yesterday’s against Liverpool. Manchester City’s defensive leader added that while City are rebuilding, they are taking steps with each match. He explained: “We live for games like this. There’s no higher level than this level, so very happy for him [Pep], very happy for us, and very happy for everyone because everyone played a great game.”

“We have been talking a lot about a rebuild since last season and there were many changes in the team which is part of the process of any club that wants to keep on winning.”

“The quality stays the same and we keep on pushing. It’s still early in the season, feet on the ground. We’re going to keep on pushing.”

Ruben Dias put in a commanding display at the back for Manchester City against Liverpool. As Manchester City’s defensive leader, he set the tone for his team defensively and his teammates followed his lead. Ruben Dias looks to be back to his best and that is exactly what Manchester City need as they look to build upon a good start to the season.