Ruben Dias: “Last year we dominated Real Madrid”

Manchester City defender Ruben Dias recently addressed the media at the City Academy Stadium, sharing his insights ahead of the much-anticipated Champions League clash against Real Madrid. The Portuguese center-back discussed various topics, including Real Madrid’s current injury concerns, the much-debated Mbappé vs. Haaland narrative, and City’s determination to overcome past disappointments.

Real Madrid’s Injury Woes

Dias emphasized the importance of not underestimating Real Madrid despite their defensive injuries. He stated, “The first mistake we could make is to relax because of the absences in Madrid’s defence. We have to match their level and maybe we can take advantage of that. We know how dangerous they are.” This highlights City’s awareness of Madrid’s depth and the potential threats they pose, regardless of personnel changes.

The Mbappé vs. Haaland Debate

Addressing the media’s focus on the individual battle between Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland, Dias remarked, “I don’t feel like it’s a Mbappé vs Haaland. It’s a City vs Madrid and there are a lot of big names. As for Erling, I’m sure that like everyone else he wants to win this competition. I’m sure he’ll be hungry to compete.” This perspective underscores the team’s collective approach, viewing the match as a contest between two football giants rather than a duel between star players.

Madrid’s Absence from the Ballon d’Or Ceremony

When questioned about Real Madrid’s absence from the Ballon d’Or ceremony, Dias responded, “I’m not going to spend a single second thinking about whether that was disrespectful. I was happy for Rodri as I think the whole club was. I don’t waste my time thinking about that.” His focus remains firmly on the upcoming match, dismissing external narratives that could serve as distractions.

Facing Mbappé Again

Reflecting on previous encounters with Kylian Mbappé, Dias noted, “We have played against him many times before and there were other concerns like Messi or Neymar. When you get to this level in the Champions League, that’s what you get. Madrid have more flexibility than most teams and we have to be very solid.” This acknowledgment of Madrid’s versatile attacking options highlights the defensive challenges City anticipates.

Revenge for Last Season’s Loss?

Dias addressed the notion of seeking revenge for last season’s elimination, stating, “We know how well we need to do to beat Madrid. Last year we dominated but we couldn’t score the goal we needed and they beat us on penalties. That’s the way the competition is.” This reflects an understanding of the fine margins in elite football and the importance of capitalizing on opportunities.

Manchester City’s Challenging Season

Discussing the team’s current campaign, Dias admitted, “This has been the most difficult season since I’ve been here, but I firmly believe that something beautiful can be achieved from a situation like this. We know how difficult the opponent is, but it’s a matter of believing in talent. We have to have faith that we can do anything.” His optimism suggests a belief in the squad’s ability to overcome adversity and achieve success.

Determined to Overcome Last Year’s Frustration

Reflecting on the previous season’s disappointment, Dias emphasized, “We understood how tough we had to be to beat Madrid. Last year was frustrating because we dominated the game and lost on penalties. We know that the style of play is different and will make things difficult for us. We have to fight harder than ever because only then will we be able to win.” This determination indicates a resolve to learn from past experiences and apply those lessons in the upcoming fixture.

Analyzing Last Season’s Encounter

In the previous Champions League campaign, Manchester City faced Real Madrid in a dramatic semi-final. City dominated possession and created numerous chances but failed to convert them into goals. Real Madrid’s resilience saw them equalize late in the game, eventually winning the tie on penalties. This match serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of football and the importance of clinical finishing.

Real Madrid’s Tactical Flexibility

Real Madrid is renowned for its tactical adaptability. Under the guidance of manager Carlo Ancelotti, they have employed various formations and strategies to exploit opponents’ weaknesses. This flexibility makes them a formidable opponent, capable of adjusting their game plan as situations demand. Manchester City will need to be prepared for multiple tactical scenarios and remain adaptable throughout the match.

The Importance of Midfield Control

The battle in midfield is expected to be a crucial factor in determining the outcome of the match. Both teams boast world-class midfielders capable of dictating play. For City, maintaining possession and controlling the tempo will be essential to limit Real Madrid’s attacking opportunities. Conversely, Madrid will aim to disrupt City’s rhythm and capitalize on transitions.

Key Players to Watch

While much attention has been given to Mbappé and Haaland, other players could prove decisive. For Manchester City, Kevin De Bruyne’s vision and passing ability can unlock defenses, while Phil Foden’s creativity offers a dynamic threat. Real Madrid will look to veterans like Luka Modrić to orchestrate play, with Vinícius Júnior providing pace and flair on the wings.

The Psychological Aspect

The psychological dimension of this encounter cannot be understated. Real Madrid’s history in the Champions League instills a sense of belief and confidence. Manchester City, despite recent successes, is still chasing their first Champions League title. Managing emotions, staying focused, and handling pressure will be vital for both teams.

Fan Expectations and Atmosphere

The supporters of both clubs have high expectations. The atmosphere in the stadium will be electric, with fans providing unwavering support. This environment can serve as both motivation and pressure for the players. Handling the crowd’s energy and using it to fuel performance will be a key aspect of the game.

Final Thoughts

As the match approaches, both teams are meticulously preparing to ensure they leave no stone unturned. The encounter promises to be a showcase of elite football, with tactical battles