Ruben Dias Explains Manchester City Changes Under Enzo Maresca

Posted : 05 September 2026

Ruben Dias says Manchester City have undergone significant changes under new manager Enzo Maresca, but the club has retained many of the principles that made them successful under Pep Guardiola. The Portuguese defender believes the squad is adapting well to the new manager's ideas as City begin a new era at the Etihad Stadium.

Dias described the transition as positive while acknowledging that Maresca has introduced his own approach to both attacking and defensive phases. The City captain said the team still has a strong identity with the ball, creating a sense of continuity despite the changes around the squad.

The defender explained that Maresca's methods have brought new energy to the dressing room. However, the players are familiar with controlling possession and building attacks, which remains an important part of City's football.

“Lots of things have changed but, in the end, not changed that much,” Dias said in comments published by Manchester City. He added that Maresca has specific ideas about how the team should play in both offensive and defensive situations.

Maresca replaced Guardiola after the Spaniard's long spell in charge came to an end. Guardiola left after establishing one of the most successful periods in City's history, including six Premier League titles and numerous domestic trophies. Maresca now faces the challenge of maintaining that level while putting his own tactical stamp on the team.

The transition has also involved major changes to the squad. City saw several experienced players leave during the summer, including Rodri and Bernardo Silva, while the club invested heavily in new additions such as Enzo Fernández, Elliot Anderson and Ayyoub Bouaddi.

Dias has also taken on greater responsibility following Bernardo's departure. Maresca confirmed that the Portugal international will lead a four-man leadership group alongside Erling Haaland, Marc Guéhi and Gianluigi Donnarumma. Dias had already worn the armband in City's opening two Premier League matches.

City have made a strong start to the new Premier League campaign. They won their opening two matches and sit on six points, giving Maresca an early platform as he attempts to establish his system.

The next test comes against newly promoted Coventry City at the Etihad Stadium. The fixture also provides an opportunity for new signing Enzo Fernández to make his City debut after completing his move from Chelsea.

For Dias, the immediate priority is helping City maintain their standards while adjusting to Maresca's methods. His assessment suggests the club's identity remains intact, even as a new manager and a reshaped squad begin to define the next chapter.

Ruben Dias Explains Manchester City Changes Under Enzo Maresca

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