Manchester City's defensive titan, Rubén Dias, has issued a stark warning to Premier League leaders Arsenal, declaring that his side's past glories provide no satisfaction in the relentless pursuit of this season's crown.
Title Chase in Full Focus
The Portuguese international, who has won the league title in four of his first five seasons at the Etihad, emphasised the non-negotiable expectation of victory at the club. City currently sit just two points behind Mikel Arteta's Arsenal, a gap closed by a formidable run of five consecutive victories over the festive period.
"When you sign and play for Manchester City, you are expected to win football matches and trophies. It's as simple as that," Dias told the Daily Mail Sport. "I am proud to have contributed to the many trophies we've won in recent years, but I also know it is never enough. We have to keep winning."
Community Commitment and Manchester as Home
Beyond the pitch, the 28-year-old revealed his deep connection to the city and his commitment to giving back. Last week, Dias, accompanied by striker Erling Haaland, visited the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital as part of the club's 'Christmas, Together' campaign, which has raised over £150,000.
Those funds will support year-round projects at the hospital and the Ronald McDonald House, a charity providing a 'home away from home' for families of children undergoing treatment.
"As one of the captains, I know I have a responsibility not only to my team but to the club and the city," Dias added. "I love this club, the fans, and the city of Manchester. It is my home now and I am settled. I care about helping people, and if I can use my platform to do that positively, it is something I will do."
Focus Sharpens After Festive Break
Manager Pep Guardiola granted his squad a three-day break before they reconvened for training on Christmas Day, with the manager warning that player weight would be checked upon their return. The team now prepares for their next league fixture against Nottingham Forest on Saturday.
Reflecting on the title battle, Dias pointed to last season's experience as a lesson. "Last year proved that if you are not at your best, you will not be close. This year we have to be close and keep fighting as we have in recent weeks," he stated, underlining the mentality required to hunt down the Gunners in the second half of the campaign.
