“It’s not easy” – Defensive star provides honest response to Manchester City living situation

Manchester City defender Ruben Dias has discussed the difficulties with adjusting to life in North West England.

The 26-year-old has become an integral part of Pep Guardiola’s squad, making 156 appearances and winning seven major trophies, since moving to the Etihad Stadium for an estimated €68 million in 2020.

Dias signed an initial six-year deal with Manchester City but was handed a fresh long-term contract in July 2021, just 11 months after moving to the Premier League from Benfica.

The Portugal international made 43 appearances during Manchester City’s treble-winning campaign last season, as the Blues lifted the Premier League, FA Cup and UEFA Champions League.

The centre-back has also become part of the Blues’ senior leadership group, rising to prominence within Guardiola’s squad since making his debut against Leeds United in October 2020.

Dias recently made his 100th Premier League appearance, and started the FIFA Club World Cup Final against Fluminense in Saudi Arabia.

The defender is set to play an important role in Manchester City’s bid to win a record fourth successive title, with the Cityzens currently five points adrift of league leaders Liverpool, but having played one game less than the Merseyside club.

Speaking to the Manchester City official Podcast, the 26-year-old defender has reflected on life in North West England after moving from the Portuguese capital in 2020.

“Right now, I’m very comfortable with myself. I enjoy the Club, I enjoy the city, I enjoy my home. I feel at home,” revealed Dias.

“It was easy to come in the sense of the football reason but in the sense of abdicating my whole life in Lisbon which is, for me, my one and only paradise it’s not easy.

“You lose a lot of what’s your normal day but I always say it and I really go by it, if you’re happy at work you can be happy wherever.

“With time you just start to know the city better and today I can say I really feel comfortable in Manchester.”