Liverpool News

Virgil van Dijk received his FIFPRO World11 2024 award

The defender received the award at the AXA training center earlier this week

By Martin Fernandez

The defender received the award at the AXA training center earlier this week
The defender received the award at the AXA training center earlier this week

Virgil van Dijk Receives FIFPRO World11 Award for the Fourth Time in His Career

The Dutch captain continues to be recognized among the best in the world.

A Historic Achievement for van Dijk

In December, Virgil van Dijk achieved another remarkable milestone in his career, being named to the FIFPRO Men's World11 for the fourth time. This prestigious honor is not just a reflection of his consistent high-level performances, but also a testament to his leadership and influence on the field. The award, voted on by over 21,000 professional players worldwide, is one of the highest individual accolades a player can receive, and it highlights van Dijk's enduring status as one of the premier central defenders in the world.

This marks the fourth time that the Liverpool captain has been included in the esteemed World11. He previously earned this recognition in 2019, 2020, and 2022, cementing his place as one of the most consistent and dominant defenders of his generation. His inclusion for a fourth time showcases his exceptional ability and his sustained excellence in a very competitive position.

The Significance of This Recognition

Van Dijk's selection for the World11 is no small feat. It speaks volumes about his influence not just at Liverpool, but in global football. His impeccable defensive skills, leadership at the back, and ability to read the game have made him a vital part of both Liverpool and the Netherlands' defensive setups. The World11 honor is a direct reflection of his remarkable performances throughout the season, where he consistently demonstrated his prowess as a rock-solid defender and a leader on the pitch.

Over the years, van Dijk has built a reputation for being a complete centre-back — someone who excels in both defensive duties and contributing to his team’s attack when needed. His leadership qualities have been invaluable for Liverpool, where he has been an instrumental figure in their successes, including winning the Premier League, Champions League, and several other titles.

FIFPRO and PFA Visit to Kirkby

This week, to honor Van Dijk’s remarkable achievement, representatives from FIFPRO and the PFA visited Liverpool's training base at Kirkby. The visit was a special occasion for both Van Dijk and the club. It provided an opportunity to officially present the commemorative trophy to the Dutchman in recognition of his place in the World11 for 2024.

The delivery of the award was a touching moment for Van Dijk, who expressed his gratitude for the recognition from his fellow professionals. “Being voted by your peers is always special,” he said. “This is the fourth time I’ve had this honor, and I don’t take it lightly. It’s a reflection of the hard work I’ve put in and the support of my teammates and staff around me.”

Van Dijk’s Influence at Liverpool and Beyond

As captain of Liverpool, Van Dijk's influence extends far beyond his on-field abilities. He has been a key figure in the club's resurgence under Jürgen Klopp, playing a pivotal role in their defensive setup and their overall tactical approach. His leadership, calmness under pressure, and ability to marshal the defence have been central to Liverpool's success in recent years.

Van Dijk’s performances have also made an impact on the international stage, as he has been a cornerstone of the Netherlands national team. His leadership and presence in the backline have helped elevate the team’s defensive standards and given them a solid foundation for their international campaigns.

The fact that Van Dijk continues to be recognized at the highest level, even with the new wave of emerging talent in world football, speaks to his exceptional consistency and adaptability. He has maintained his place among the best for several years and remains one of the most respected defenders in the game.

Looking Ahead

As Van Dijk accepts his FIFPRO World11 trophy, the recognition serves as both a culmination of his achievements and a reminder of the immense pressure he continues to carry. His career is far from over, and he remains focused on leading Liverpool to further success, both domestically and internationally. His remarkable ability to stay at the top of his game for so long is a testament to his professionalism, commitment, and unwavering desire to be the best.

Liverpool fans, as well as football lovers around the world, can look forward to more of Van Dijk’s leadership and performances in the coming years, as he continues to prove why he is regarded as one of the best defenders in the world.

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