“We feel the pressure,” Manchester City star reflects on squad atmosphere amidst poor form

• Ruben Dias revealed the toll Manchester City's recent poor form has taken on the squad, describing the defeats as emotionally consuming
• The defender emphasised that tough moments can build character, urging the team to push forward ahead of their Champions League clash with Juventus
• The Premier League champions have managed only one win in their last nine games, leaving them at risk of missing the Champions League playoffs

Manchester City’s star defender, Ruben Dias, has candidly opened up about the atmosphere in Pep Guardiola’s squad as they navigate an unusual challenging season. 

Following his return from a calf injury, the Portuguese centre-back reflected on how recent defeats have impacted the reigning Premier League champions both mentally and emotionally. However, he remains optimistic that these trying times will forge the character needed to boost their campaign challenge in the Premier League and Champions League.

City has struggled to find their rhythm this season, securing only one win in their last nine matches across all competitions. The situation has been further complicated by their struggles in the Champions League, where they languish in 20th place in the league phase standings, putting their playoff qualification hopes in jeopardy.

Speaking in an exclusive interview, Dias revealed that the defeats have consumed the team, acknowledging the toll of repeated setbacks, 

“I think unconsciously you do think about it, of course, it is important to be able to disconnect at some point; that keeps you healthy in your mind and work-wise. Obviously, it consumes you because we are all winners, and no one likes to be in this position.”

Despite the emotional strain, Dias believes adversity is an opportunity to prove character and determination, 

“These difficult moments and what they build inside you are the one thing that will push you forward, in a way, it is our life, and it is what we have dedicated our efforts into. It is also in these times that you show who you are the most and your character.”

Dias’ recent absence has been felt in recent games, with City enduring a humiliating 4-1 loss to Sporting Lisbon and a 3-3 draw against Feyenoord. Now back in the lineup, the defender insists the team is determined to rectify their form, starting with their crucial Champions League clash against Juventus.

Pep Guardiola, who extended his contract with the club until 2027, has also faced scrutiny over City’s poor performances. Dias, however, dismissed any suggestion that Guardiola’s approach has changed, 

“No, he is adapting like all of us to the circumstances, obviously, like us, he is feeling the moment, and we want to go through it. Of course, we do feel pressure; pressure is a good thing if you know how to take it into a good place.”

As Manchester City prepares to face Juventus tonight, December 11, the pressure remains on Manchester City to show results quickly. But if Dias’ words are anything to go by, the squad is ready to embrace the challenge and fight their way back to the form that has defined Guardiola’s reign.

“I don’t believe in the charges,” Arsène Wenger on Manchester City’s trial

Previously, TheRadar reported that the ongoing legal battle involving Manchester City and the Premier League over 115 alleged financial breaches has gripped the football world. 

As the charges hearing stretches on, Arsène Wenger has shared his thoughts, calling for a complete overhaul of Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules. Wenger argued that the current system in the Premier League is outdated and in dire need of reform.