There’s very little doubt Virgil van Dijk is the best defender in world football.After arriving at Liverpool in January 2018, the Dutchman has transformed the Reds’ defensive record helping them to win the Champions League, while they’re also on the brink of becoming Premier League champions.He went a ridiculous 50 matches without being dribbled past and he makes defending look far too easy.To pay tribute to the centre-back, Planet Football have taken a look at 13 times Van Dijk proved he’s just too good.Let’s take a look at them:
First touch in training
The ball falls from the sky and Van Dijk stuns the ball with an immaculate touch. A centre-back shouldn't be able to do that.
Casual defending vs Southampton
As the song goes..."Calm as you like."
His assist vs Bayern Munich
Not the first time Van Dijk has produced an assist with an incredible pass. And it won't be the last.
His free-kick ability
Not bad for a centre-back.
And again…
Proof that his first one wasn't a fluke...
He’s not bad in training, either
Why hasn't he taken any free-kicks for Liverpool!?
Outrageous backheel
The most in-form striker wouldn't think of producing a chipped backheel when in front of goal. Van Dijk attempted it, though.
The pace to deal with Adama Traore
Not even the fastest player in the league could get past Van Dijk.
Look at that pace
Virgil was the fastest player in last season's Champions League campaign with this sprint vs Barcelona.
Crossbar challenge
Too. Easy.
Skills to pay the bills
Another reminder: He's a centre-back.
NUTS
Must be embarrassing getting nutmegged by a defender in training.
Using that wind to perfection
Ok, it was wind-assisted but that's not a bad trickshot.