08 June 2023 , 11:40
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Ruben Dias reckons Inter Milan have their work cut out to find a way past Manchester City 's “intelligent” defence in Saturday's Champions League final.
Pep Guardiola 's side have conceded just five goals in 12 Champions League games this season – the fewest of any side in the competition. City defender Dias says that is down to the collective intelligence of their defenders and Guardiola's inspired tactical switch of moving John Stones into a midfield role.
The change means City play with a back three when in possession, with Stones slotting into midfield, and revert to a back-four with the England defender when their opponents have the ball.
“It's changed the way we do it,” said Dias. “The biggest change is to John. From being to my side, he has to go in the middle and have a completely different role from what it used to be.
“He's definitely showed us how good he is and how good he can be in that position. It’s a big step in our team, because you end up having an extra man in the middle and then in two seconds he's next to me.”
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Dias put City's impressive defensive record down to the understanding between the back-four and their cleverness in being able to adapt to different situations.
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“We all get along very well and one of the main characteristics we all have is that we're intelligent and adaptive to situations,” said Dias.
“If the solution we are doing is not exactly what we need, we’re able to adapt. These days, it’s a very important characteristic to have not just in one player but in your team.
“That’s why we’re here and have this opportunity to win a third competition this season. Now it’s about making it even more special.
“Everyone wants to be here. We’ve worked a lot to make the final, so we need to make it make count now.”