Pepe praises fellow countryman Rueben Dias

star,

, believes

, who joined

after leaving

in September, is one of the best defenders in the current time.

“Ruben Dias is already the best Portuguese center-back in the world, I have already said that,"

the former

player told

Tribuna Expreso.

"Not only that, but he’s a very smart player as well.”

Pepe, who had the chance to create a great partnership with the 23-year-old in

’s defense line, had also talked about his fellow countryman ahead of their

Champions League

back in October, saying:  

"I have had huge respect for Ruben from the very first day he arrived at the national team.”

"He has always been an exemplary player in the team and has shown his character. I was also happy to see him leave for a club like Manchester City, where he will keep progressing and growing."

In return Dias also revealed his admiration for the 37-year-old legend, admitting:  

"It is not normal for a player of Pepe's age to keep up the great performances he has put in.”

"We should be happy that he still has the ability to play at this level.”

"There are few greater privileges than being able to have his experience and the opportunity to play alongside him, because of everything he represents, where he played and everything he won.”

"I see a great chance to learn every day, every second."

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