In our view, Manchester City centre-back Ruben Dias looked back to his best in his side’s 1-0 victory against Tottenham Hotspur on Friday.
Anton Ferdinand had claimed that the Portuguese defender, who has not been at his brilliant best this season was perhaps missing the presence of John Stones next to him, who has largely been injured this campaign.
After City’s 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace, Janusz Michallik also stated that the 26-year-old was “struggling” this term.
Manchester City colossus Ruben Dias looked like he was back to his best against Tottenham
But as Manchester City finally ended their curse at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium during their latest FA Cup encounter, Ruben Dias silenced his critics.
The £180,000-a-week (Sport Rac) man looked like a colossus in the centre of defence, stepping out of the backline to bully Richarlison on multiple occasions.
The Brazilian international, who has been in terrific form recently was kept quiet by Dias, who was touch-tight on him and did not allow him to turn and kickstart a counter-attack for a Spurs team who were on the backfoot.
As Manchester City restricted Tottenham to just a mere shot on target, a major reason behind this being the outcome was due to Ruben Dias’ elite defending inside the box.
Time and time again, the former Benfica centre-half won ground and aerial duels in and around City’s danger area, blocked shots and got in the way of everything the hosts had to offer.
The three-time Premier League winner’s positioning was flawless throughout the contest, as any time Ange Postecoglou’s side looked likely to create a chance, he was present at the right place, at the right time to remind many of his lionhearted showings from last season.
Despite playing as a right-sided centre-back, which, in our view is Ruben Dias’ weaker position as compared to the left, he bossed proceedings alongside Nathan Ake against Tottenham for Manchester City.
Even in possession, the treble-winner was a treat to witness, especially when it came to breaking the lines with his passing.
The cream always rises to the top and Ruben Dias exhibited this very sentiment in north London.
