Bernardo Silva highlights the impact of Ruben Dias’ absence on Manchester City as their winless streak continues.

Manchester City is feeling the absence of their key central defender Ruben Dias, as teammate Bernardo Silva emphasized this week. Dias, the Portugal international, has missed the club’s last two games due to a muscular injury that has sidelined him from first-team action.

After making an appearance in City’s Carabao Cup match against Tottenham, Dias was forced to sit out the 2-1 loss to Bournemouth and the recent 4-1 Champions League defeat to Sporting. His injury is among several challenges Pep Guardiola is managing, alongside injuries to John Stones and Jack Grealish, as well as longer-term issues for Oscar Bobb and Rodri.

Speaking at a press conference following the 4-1 defeat to Sporting, Bernardo Silva explained how crucial Dias’ presence is to the club’s defense as he works to recover. Silva, reflecting on his friendship with Dias, said, “He’s my best friend in the team, and even though he’s a bit younger than me, we shared moments together at Benfica.”

Silva described Dias as a leader, saying, “He’s intense in his work, maybe a bit too much for me, but that shows his passion for the game.” Silva also noted Dias’ focus, body language, and leadership on the field and in the dressing room, adding, “We miss him!”

Dias is not expected to return for City’s final game before the international break, as the Premier League champions prepare to face Brighton & Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium. City goes into the match in second place, two points behind Liverpool and four points ahead of third-place Nottingham

Forest.