Every Word: Ruben Dias’ pre-Bayern Munich press conference

Manchester City centre-back Ruben Dias has addressed the media on the eve of the mammoth Champions League quarter-final first-leg clash with Bayern Munich.

Dias played an integral role in Manchester City’s last outing on Saturday afternoon, as the Portugal international stood strong in a back-line that kept out a threatening Southampton attack as part of a 1-4 win on the south coast.

Despite returning from the World Cup with a muscular problem last winter, Ruben Dias has been instrumental to Manchester City’s ongoing winning run, and has arguably transformed Pep Guardiola’s defensive set-up through his leadership and authority.

The former Benfica man’s attributes in all departments will certainly be crucial to any success that comes City’s way in the coming months, as the club continue to fight for a third successive Premier League title, an FA Cup crown, and of course a first Champions League honour.

As Ruben Dias looked ahead to the last-eight of Europe’s premier club competition, here is every single word as he addressed the media at the City Football Academy on Monday afternoon!

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On Bayern Munich and the Champions League

“I think first of all, (we have to have) ambition. I think that will be the key. It will be a balanced game between very two good teams. The details will make the difference.”

“After everything Bayern has done always, we know we are up against a difficult side and obviously the Premier League is different to the Bundesliga, but we know it will be balanced between us and we are very sharp knowing that all details will matter.”

On facing Joao Cancelo

“It will be strange because not very long ago, we were fighting together, but it is what it is. It’s football and decisions have been made. It will be good to play against him and see him again.”

“Especially after our time here (at Manchester City) together, we have built a special relationship so we’ve been in contact. But when the game starts, each one will be on their own side.”

On Thomas Tuchel becoming Bayern Munich manager

“Suddenly everything (preparations) changes. It’s the most difficult thing to catch up on. We will do our best to be ready.”

On coming back from an injury sustained at the World Cup

“It is what it is, it’s football, it’s our job to be ready for it, firstly for the team and finding the answer in yourself. It’s about staying positive and keep doing the best you can to help the team the most with our own ability. Football changes and that’s why you always need to keep sharp.”

“It was a difficult time, (getting injured in) the last two games of the World Cup. It was not an easy period because of the importance of the competition but I came back and I’m here to help.”

On winning the Champions League

“The hunger is there to win. It will be a difficult match and we have to be at our best. I think every season that begins, the work you have to do is the stay in Premier League (title race), Champions League. We’ve done very well, but it’s not enough – you either do it or not.”

On losing in the Champions League final to Chelsea

“A wise man once said to me, we didn’t lost the final we just got one step closer. I keep these words close to me. Every year, it’s about getting closer and closer. We’re still in the pursuit and we’ll keep fighting.”

“It’s never easy to lose a final like that. I’m never the guy to think too much about losing a big opportunity. In the next five minutes, I’ll be looking for the next one.”

On previous Champions League campaigns

“I cannot compare previous years because every year football changes. But I can guarantee that we are here and will fight for everything.”

On the threat of Bayern Munich’s pace in attack

“We’ve got our own players too. We’ll see on the pitch.”