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Manchester City defender Ruben Dias extends contract at Etihad Stadium until 2027
The Portuguese centre-back has re-affirmed his commitment to the Premier League champions after a hugely impressive first year in English football
Ruben Dias has signed a contract extension that will keep him at Manchester City until 2027.
The Portuguese defender only joined last summer from Benfica in a £62 million ($79m) on a five-year deal.
However, a new contract is reward for outstanding season where he won the Football Writers’ Player of the Year as City lifted the Premier League title and reached the final of the Champ[ions League.
What has been said?
“I’m very happy to sign the new deal. I have enjoyed every single minute of my time at City since joining last year," the 24-year-old said. “Playing for City has surpassed all my expectations and it’s an absolute pleasure to be part of such an incredible squad.
“I would also like to thank Pep and the coaching staff for the way they have helped me to develop as a player and keep pushing me to improve.
“To be part of the squad that achieved so much last season was incredible and made us all hungry to achieve even more. Now I just want to try and play my part in helping us be successful this season and beyond.”
The bigger picture
Dias struck up a formidable partnership with John Stones at the heart of City's back-four last season as Guardiola's side finished with the best defensive record in the Premier League.
The Portuguese international made 50 appearances across all competitions and emerged as a natural leader as City overcame a disappointing to the season. City had been searching for such a big influence in the dressing room and in the backline ever since club legend Vincent Kompany left the club.
“Although he only joined us less than a year ago, in that time Ruben has already proved to be such a vital part of our squad," director of football Txiki Begiristain said. “It tells you everything about his quality and importance to the club that we wanted to recognise his impact with this new contract.
“He is everything you would want in a central defender and so much more and he will be a big part of our drive to bring even more success to the club over the next few years.”
