Ruben Dias refuses to discuss Manchester City guilty verdict on Portugal duty

Manchester City captain Ruben Dias has refused to discuss the guilty verdict hanging over his club while away on international duty with Portugal.

Dias faced the media on Wednesday ahead of Portugal’s next Nations League fixture and was inevitably asked about the situation surrounding City.

The defender acknowledged the question but immediately made clear that he would not be drawn into the controversy.

“I understand the question, but I’m not going to comment on anything that isn’t related to the national team,” Dias said.

That was as far as the City captain was prepared to go.

His response means there was no public defence of Manchester City, but equally no criticism of the club or discussion of the findings against them.

Manchester City maintain their innocence and have confirmed their intention to appeal the decision.

Dias, however, appears determined to separate the situation at his club from his responsibilities with Portugal.

That approach contrasts sharply with Pep Guardiola, who publicly offered his full support to City following the verdict.

“I want every Manchester City fan around the world to know that I am here; more than ever,” Guardiola said.

“I am, always have been, always will, be behind my club, my owner, my chairman, Ferran, the players, staff, Enzo [Maresca] and you, our unique supporters.”

Guardiola added that everyone associated with City would face the situation together.

“Let me be clear: we will get through this together. I love you all.”

Guardiola’s strong public backing is only one of several reactions to emerge following the decision.

Former Manchester City chairman David Bernstein has taken a very different position, calling for severe punishment following the commission’s findings. Expulsion from the Premier League is among the potential sanctions he has discussed.

Dias is choosing neither approach.

As City captain, his reaction was always likely to attract attention, particularly while the verdict dominates discussion around the club.

For now, though, he has drawn a clear line. His focus while representing Portugal is on the national team, and he is not prepared to publicly enter the debate surrounding Manchester City.

Manchester City’s appeal will determine the next major stage of the case, while further reaction from players, former players and other figures connected to the club is likely to continue.

Dias has made his position on discussing the matter clear for now. Unless he changes approach after returning to Manchester, the City captain appears determined to leave the public response to others.

His immediate priority is Portugal and their Nations League campaign. For City, attention remains on the appeal process and what consequences could ultimately follow from the verdict.