A strong case could be made that Virgil van Dijk and Ruben Dias are the two best centre-backs in the Premier League.
While the likes of William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes and Ibrahima Konate are rightly lauded by fans and pundits alike, Van Dijk and Dias have been operating at world-class standards for several years now.
Both Ruben Dias and the Dutchman have also played crucial roles for Manchester City and Liverpool respctively in winning major trophies.
TROPHIES WON COMPARISON
COMPETITION DIAS VAN DIJK
PREMIER LEAGUE 4 1
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE 1 1
FA CUP 1 1
CARABAO CUP 1 2
FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP 1 1
UEFA SUPER CUP 1 1
As a result, Dias and Van Dijk have credit in the bank for being outstanding central defenders in every sense of the word.
This season, while the Portuguese international’s Manchester City side have underwhelmed, the former Southampton colossus’ Liverpool side are flying.
Furthermore, Van Dijk has played an instrumental role in Liverpool looking like the favourites to win the Premier League title and one of the strongest contenders to also lift the Champions League.
Manuel Akanji and Ruben Dias of Manchester City react during the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Manchester City FC at Anfield on Dec...
Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images
MORE MAN CITY STORIES
Virgil van Dijk describes Ruben Dias using just two words
Erling Haaland praised Van Dijk as the toughest defender he has faced during his time in the Premier League.
While Van Dijk lauded Haaland as one of his most challenging-ever opponents as well.
Playing the ‘word association game’, Dias’ name was brought up to Van Dijk, who needed just two words to sum him up.
“Slide tackle”, the 33-year-old said with a smile on his face while speaking to GOAL.
The former Benfica defender is certainly known for often going to ground and putting in perfectly-timed challenges.
During Manchester City’s latest 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace, Dias was spotted making several such challenges that kept the visitors in the game at Selhurst Park.
Manchester City fans sang Dias’ praises for his heroic display in what was another disappointing evening for their side.
Ally McCoist said ‘key’ Dias ‘stabilises’ Man City
Ally McCoist pinpointed Dias’ importance to this Manchester City side recently.
“Do you know who I think is key for them? I think [Ruben] Dias, the centre-half. I think he stabilises them at the back as well and he doesn’t mind leaving himself one-v-one defensively.”
Since returning to the side from injury, Dias has helped Manchester City remain unbeaten in their last two league outings.
Considering City’s recent dire run of form, Pep Guardiola’s side could consider that as somewhat of a silver lining.
Dias will be hoping that through the strength of his performances this season, he is named alongside Van Dijk as the best centre-half in the league.
But most importantly, the 27-year-old will be hoping that the 2024/2025 season does not end up being his first campaign in a City shirt where he does not wind up winning the title.
Related Posts