Ruben Dias insisted that Manchester City’s past glories do not satisfy him, vowing to hunt down Arsenal in the Premier League title race.
City are two points behind the leaders after five consecutive victories going into Christmas have increased the pressure on Mikel Arteta’s side.
Dias, who won league titles in each of his first four seasons at the Etihad Stadium, is demanding more from a team who usually peak after New Year.
‘I knew the pressure of joining this club when I joined,’ Dias told Daily Mail Sport.
‘When you sign and play for Manchester City, you are expected to win football matches and win trophies.
‘It’s as simple as that. I’m proud to have contributed to the many trophies we have won in recent years, but I also know it’s never enough. We have to keep winning.
Manchester City defender Ruben Dias spent time at Manchester Children’s Hospital last week
The Portuguese defender was joined by star striker Erling Haaland as part of a Christmas campaign
Dias revealed that his previous trophies with City count for nothing as they go for the title
The 28-year-old also said he feels ‘at home’ in Manchester and wants to give back to the area
‘Last year showed that if you are not at the level then you won’t be close. We’ve got to be close this year and keep fighting as we have in recent weeks.’
Pep Guardiola has given his stars three days off before they return to training on Christmas Day – the City boss firing a warning that the weights of players will be scrutinised – before facing Nottingham Forest on Saturday.
Dias was among the squad members who visited Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital last week as part of City festive campaign, “Christmas, Together” that has raised more than £150,000.
Those funds will be used for year-round projects at the hospital and Ronald McDonald House, a charity offering accommodation away from home for children receiving treatment and their families.
‘As one of the captains – I know I have not just a responsibility for my team, but also the club and the city,’ Dias added.
‘I love this club, the fans and the city of Manchester. It is my home now and I am settled. I care about helping people and if I can use my platform to do that in a positive way then it’s something I am going to do.
‘When you are one of the leaders at a club, I believe there is an extra responsibility to help the community. It’s why I am proud to support City in the Community throughout the year.
‘Putting smiles on faces, helping those who are less fortunate, it’s something that brings me great joy and that’s something I will always continue to do.’
