Virgil van Dijk is widely regarded as one of the best defenders in modern football. The Dutch center-back has redefined the art of defending with his composure, physicality, and leadership qualities. Playing for Liverpool FC and captaining the Netherlands national team, van Dijk’s journey to the top is filled with intriguing moments and lesser-known facts.
Here are seven interesting facts about the towering defender that showcase his personality, career, and impact on the sport.
1. He wasn’t always a defender
Van Dijk’s footballing journey didn’t begin as a center-back. In his youth, he played as a striker and even as a right-back before eventually settling into the central defensive role where he now excels. Growing up in Breda, Netherlands, van Dijk’s versatility was evident early on. It wasn’t until he joined the youth academy of Willem II that coaches began to see his potential as a defender, thanks to his height, strength, and ability to read the game.
2. He worked as a dishwasher before turning pro
Van Dijk’s rise to stardom was far from instantaneous. As a teenager, he balanced his football dreams with a part-time job washing dishes at a restaurant called Oncle Jean in Breda. At the time, he was still developing physically and wasn’t considered a standout talent. His growth spurt came late, and he faced rejection and skepticism about his potential. However, his work ethic and determination shone through, both in the kitchen and on the pitch.
3. He nearly quit football due to a life-threatening illness
In 2012, while playing for FC Groningen in the Dutch Eredivisie, van Dijk faced a major health scare that almost ended his career—and his life. He suffered from a combination of appendicitis, a ruptured appendix, and peritonitis (an infection of the abdominal lining). The condition was so severe that he was hospitalized and underwent emergency surgery. At one point, van Dijk later revealed, he was forced to sign legal documents in case he didn’t survive. Fortunately, he made a full recovery and returned to football with a renewed sense of purpose, eventually earning a move to Celtic in 2013.
4. He’s the most expensive defender in history (at the time of his transfer)
In January 2018, Liverpool signed van Dijk from Southampton for £75 million ($99 million), making him the most expensive defender in football history at the time. The transfer fee raised eyebrows, with many questioning whether any defender could justify such a price tag. However, van Dijk quickly silenced his critics by transforming Liverpool’s defense. His arrival marked the beginning of a golden era for the club, culminating in the 2019 UEFA Champions League title and the 2019-20 Premier League title. Since then, other transfers (like Harry Maguire’s £80 million move to Manchester United) have surpassed his fee, but van Dijk’s impact has proven his worth beyond the numbers.
5. He was named UEFA Men’s Player of the Year in 2019
Van Dijk’s dominance on the pitch earned him the prestigious UEFA Men’s Player of the Year award in 2019, making him the first defender to win the honor since it was introduced. That year, he played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s Champions League triumph and finished as runner-up in the Ballon d’Or, narrowly losing to Lionel Messi. His recognition as one of the world’s best players highlighted a shift in football, where defenders are increasingly celebrated for their contributions, not just strikers or midfielders. Van Dijk’s composure, aerial ability, and leadership were key factors in his standout season.
6. He’s known for his unbreakable mentality
Van Dijk’s mental strength is as impressive as his physical attributes. One of his most famous quotes, “I’m never nervous, because for me, it’s just a game,” reflects his unflappable demeanor. This mentality has been crucial in high-pressure situations, such as the 2019 Champions League final and countless Premier League matches. Even after suffering a serious ACL injury in October 2020, caused by a reckless tackle from Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, van Dijk approached his recovery with the same calmness and determination. His return to top form in subsequent seasons further solidified his reputation as a player who thrives under adversity.
7. He’s a devoted family man
Off the pitch, van Dijk is a dedicated husband and father. He married his childhood sweetheart, Rike Nooitgedagt, and the couple has four children together. Rike gave up her career in the fashion industry to support van Dijk’s football journey, a decision he has often credited for his success. Van Dijk is known for keeping his personal life private, but he occasionally shares glimpses of his family on social media, showcasing his softer side.