Manchester City were handed a huge boost recently as it was confirmed that Ruben Dias has committed to a new six-year deal at the Etihad Stadium, which will surely delight Pep Guardiola.

What's the word?

City confirmed on Monday that the Portugal international had signed a new deal with the club, which should keep him at the Etihad until 2027, with reports suggesting that his wage has been doubled from £80k per week to £160k per week.

Considering that the 24-year-old won the Premier League Player of the Year award last season for his superb performances in his debut campaign with the club, it is no surprise that the Citizens were keen to tie him down to a new long-term deal.

A huge boost for Guardiola?

If Manchester City are to win the Premier League again this season, Dias' performances at the back will surely play a huge factor.

Guardiola's side kept 19 clean sheets last season en route to regaining the title, and considering that Dias arrived after they produced a defensive horror show in a 5-2 home defeat against Leicester City, it is clear to see how important he was in improving their backline.

[snack-amp-story url="https://www.footballfancast.com/web-stories/read-the-latest-manchester-city-transfer-rumours-and-news" title="Read the latest Manchester City transfer rumours and news!”]

The Portuguese defender formed a superb partnership with John Stones at the heart of City's defence and made 32 appearances in the top flight, contributing one goal and averaging an impressive 6.91 average rating from WhoScored for his performances.

He also produced a memorable display in the 2-0 win against PSG in the Champions League, which secured City's place in the final, with his commanding presence at the back and willingness to put his body on the line to block shots reminiscent of City legend and former captain Vincent Kompany.

Guardiola was full of praise for the centre-back's influence last season, saying: “He is a guy that can play every three days. He recovers immediately and his ability is incredible, as is his understanding of the game."

[freshpress-quiz id=“577936”]

Therefore, the Spaniard will no doubt be delighted that City have been able to tie down Dias for the long-term future, as he will likely be an important player for the Citizens for the rest of Guardiola's tenure.

In other news... Guardiola may already have his next Foden at City in "amazing" rarely-seen 19 y/o