Manchester City have secured the long-term future of their defensive linchpin Rúben Dias, with the Portugal international signing a contract extension that will keep him at the Etihad Stadium until 2029, with an option for an additional year. The 28-year-old, who joined City from Benfica in 2020 for £65 million, has been a cornerstone of Pep Guardiola’s squad, transforming the team’s defense and contributing to a trophy-laden five-year spell.
Since arriving, Dias has made over 200 appearances, winning 10 major trophies, including four consecutive Premier League titles, the 2023 Champions League, and the FA Cup. His impact was immediate, earning him the Premier League Player of the Season and Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year awards in his debut campaign (2020-21). Despite injury challenges last season, Dias remains a vital leader, forming part of City’s four-man leadership group alongside Erling Haaland, Bernardo Silva, and Rodri.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Dias expressed his delight: “I’m so proud to represent this great club. Cities are where I want to be—at the top of the sport, competing for trophies. I love Manchester – it is my home now—and I love the Manchester City fans. Their support from day one has been unbelievable.” He added, “My job now is to be the best I can be for the duration of this contract so that I can play my part in helping us challenge for more silverware.”
The city’s director of football, Hugo Viana, praised Dias’ professionalism: “His hard work, professionalism, and sheer dedication are clear to all of us every single day. He is a leader in the dressing room and on the pitch. His performances over the past five years have been outstanding, and he is a big reason why we have been so successful.”
The new deal, which extends Dias’ previous contract (set to expire in 2027) by two years with an optional 12 months, underscores City’s commitment to maintaining a strong defensive core as they navigate a busy transfer window. With other key players like John Stones, Bernardo Silva, and Ederson facing uncertain futures, securing Dias is a significant statement of intent.
The Portuguese center-back is also seen as a potential future captain, further cementing his importance to the club’s ongoing rebuild.As Manchester City prepares for the 2025-26 Premier League season, Dias’ extension provides stability and leadership, ensuring the club’s backline remains rock-solid in their pursuit of more silverware.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Dias expressed his delight: “I’m so proud to represent this great club. Cities are where I want to be—at the top of the sport, competing for trophies. I love Manchester – it is my home now—and I love the Manchester City fans. Their support from day one has been unbelievable.” He added, “My job now is to be the best I can be for the duration of this contract so that I can play my part in helping us challenge for more silverware.”
The city’s director of football, Hugo Viana, praised Dias’ professionalism: “His hard work, professionalism, and sheer dedication are clear to all of us every single day. He is a leader in the dressing room and on the pitch. His performances over the past five years have been outstanding, and he is a big reason why we have been so successful.”
The new deal, which extends Dias’ previous contract (set to expire in 2027) by two years with an optional 12 months, underscores City’s commitment to maintaining a strong defensive core as they navigate a busy transfer window. With other key players like John Stones, Bernardo Silva, and Ederson facing uncertain futures, securing Dias is a significant statement of intent.
The Portuguese center-back is also seen as a potential future captain, further cementing his importance to the club’s ongoing rebuild.As Manchester City prepares for the 2025-26 Premier League season, Dias’ extension provides stability and leadership, ensuring the club’s backline remains rock-solid in their pursuit of more silverware.
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