Nicolas Jackson scored either side of an Erling Haaland equaliser as Enzo Maresca tasted defeat for the first time as City boss in the top-flight.
The Blues dominated across the pitch, boasting 63% possession, having seven shots on target and completing 472 passes, but the hosts were more clinical at a wet and windy Villa Park.
Dias, who sounded his frustration after the defeat, was also pleased with the team’s spirit to fight until the very end.
“Frustrating, it felt like we fought a lot,” he began in his interview after the game. “For the first 10-15 minutes of the first half we took our time to get into the game. They changed the way they set up so we took time to adapt.
“But we fought, we had chances and they ended up scoring two goals in two transitions - very efficient. Room to improve, we need to do better.
It is what it is. Whatever happens we need to react to it. The team had a very good reaction. The second one was tough because it was very close to our equaliser. We kept going and tried to create chances. Not our day but we keep moving forward.
“I felt like we were dangerous on many occasions, even if the finish wasn’t there we arrived in dangerous places but not able to play. A word of appreciation to the boys because we kept fighting to the end.”
And now attention will turn to preparing for our double-header against Brighton and Hove Albion, who we face on Wednesday evening in the Carabao Cup fourth round, before hosting the Seagulls again next Saturday in the league.
Our skipper is aiming for the perfect reaction to the defeat in our next outings.
“A top team, another one,” he continued. “A different way to play so we’ll make the adaptation then focus on ourselves that’s the main thing.
“Our spirit, our will to win.”
City v Brighton: £20 for adults and £1 for U18s
Tickets are now on sale for our Carabao Cup fourth round meeting with Brighton.
We host Fabian Hurzeler’s side at 19:30 (UK) on Wednesday 28 October.
Tickets for adults start from just £20, with all U18s only £1 – and you can also buy up to six tickets per person.
Taking place during half term school holidays too, it’s the perfect time to experience a night under the Etihad lights for all the family!
And there will be so much to do beforehand, with a Kids Fanzone just over the road at the City Football Academy ahead of kick-off.
Meanwhile, hospitality is available from just £100 with a range of packages on offer to suit your needs, whether a special occasion for a loved one or for something professional.
Book your place at the Seagulls encounter below.
