Joško Gvardiol could prove Ruben Dias claim right at Man City

As Man City prepare for their opening pre-season fixture this weekend, there is a fresh incentive for them to do it all again.

Last season was the culmination of years of hard work, and after reaping the rewards, the task will now be to emulate their impressive feat, if not better it, with even more silverware along the way.

It is easier said than done, though. In order to have any hope of doing so, they must first rid themselves of any complacency and find fresh motivation to win trophies, starting again from zero and a blank page where they are equals once again.

Ruben Dias has already warned that he's 'not done yet' and firmly believes the Treble triumph will be far more of a help than a hindrance as they prepare to go once more.

Read next: Dias warning is bad news for Man City's rivals

City might not take long before they manage to separate themselves from the rest again, and the hard work they put in over the next fortnight will go a long way to setting those standards.

In particular, City's pursuit of another top centre-back looks like another savvy call, as they not only look to reach the same benchmark but perhaps even raise them.

Joško Gvardiol is City's top defensive target this summer, and there is hope that a deal can be completed quickly so that he can play a part in pre-season if possible.

Even then, recent history at the club suggests that the 21-year-old might need some time to settle in and adapt to his new surroundings and the expectations of Pep Guardiola before his quality really shows.

The Croat's proposed move might not bring with it the dramatic transformation that some supporters might expect, but a by-product of his signing could be the motivation he brings to his teammates.

"This club hires