Full Name: Virgil van Dijk
Date of Birth: 8 July 1991
Place of Birth: Breda, Netherlands
Height: 1.95 m (6 ft 5 in)
Position(s): Centre-back
Current Club: Liverpool
Jersey Number: 4
While Virgil van Dijk has established himself as a formidable force in the back line of Liverpool's defence and a cornerstone in the club's resurgence in recent years under Jürgen Klopp and now Arne Slot, his journey to the top has been anything but ordinary. He has navigated a challenging path through lower leagues and faced significant setbacks.
Below Are Virgil van Dijk Facts, Career Odyssey, Salary, and Net Worth
1. He Has A Mixed Heritage of Dutch, Afro and Chinese-Surinamese Descent
Virgil van Dijk is of mixed heritage, with his background reflecting a diverse blend of cultures. His father is of Dutch descent, while his mother has Afro and Chinese-Surinamese roots. This rich cultural heritage has shaped Van Dijk's identity, contributing to his unique presence on and off the field.
2. Van Dijk was Born in Breda and Grew Up in Kesteren
Born in Breda, a city in the southern Netherlands, Virgil van Dijk spent his early years in the nearby town of Kesteren. It was in these surroundings that he developed a passion for football, playing in local streets and fields, laying the groundwork for his future career.
3. He started playing football at WDS'19 and later joined Willem II
Van Dijk began his football journey at a young age, playing for local amateur club WDS'19 in Breda. His talent quickly became evident, leading him to join the youth ranks of Willem II, a professional club where he continued to hone his skills.
4. He Worked as A Dishwasher While Playing for the Willem II Academy
During his time at the Willem II academy, Van Dijk faced the challenges of balancing football with everyday life. To support himself, he worked as a dishwasher in a local restaurant, demonstrating his determination and commitment to pursuing his football dreams despite humble beginnings.
5. He was Shifted From Right-back to Central Defence After Growing By 18cm
Van Dijk’s football career took a significant turn when a late growth spurt saw him shoot up by 18 centimetres. This physical transformation prompted his coaches to shift him from right-back to central defence, a move that would eventually define his playing style and position.
6. Willem II Didn't Offer Him A Contract Due to Perceived Limitations
Despite his potential, Willem II made the fateful decision not to offer Van Dijk a professional contract. The club’s staff perceived limitations in his abilities, particularly concerns over his speed and tactical awareness, leading them to let him go—a decision they would later regret.
7. He Joined Groningen Academy After Willem II Rejected Him
After being rejected by Willem II, Van Dijk’s career was revived when Martin Koeman, a scout for FC Groningen and father of Ronald Koeman, spotted his talent. Groningen offered him a place in their academy, where Van Dijk began to develop into the top-tier defender the world would soon recognise.
8. Van Dijk Underwent Life-saving Surgery at Age 20
At the age of 20, Van Dijk faced a life-threatening health scare that required emergency surgery. Suffering from peritonitis and a kidney infection, he was hospitalised and underwent a procedure that saved his life. This ordeal left a lasting impact on Van Dijk, deepening his resolve and perspective on life.
9. He Thrived at Celtic and Southampton Before Liverpool Came Calling
Van Dijk’s professional career flourished when he moved to Celtic in Scotland, where his commanding performances in defence earned him recognition. His success at Celtic paved the way for a move to Southampton in the Premier League, where he continued to excel. His outstanding form eventually caught the attention of Liverpool, who signed him in 2018 for a then-record fee for a defender.
10. He Has Been Playing for the Netherlands Since His U19 Days
Van Dijk's international career began in his youth, with his first appearance for the Netherlands coming at the U19 level. Since then, he has steadily climbed the ranks, representing his country with distinction across various age groups before becoming a mainstay in the senior team.
11. He Has A Towering Presence Standing at 6 ft 5 in (1.95 m)
Standing at an imposing 6 feet 5 inches (1.95 meters), Van Dijk’s physical presence is one of his most distinctive attributes. His height and strength give him a significant advantage in aerial duels and contribute to his reputation as one of the most dominant defenders in modern football.
12. Iconic Italian Defender Alessandro Nesta is His Primary Influence
Virgil van Dijk has often cited Italian legend Alessandro Nesta as his greatest influence as a defender. Admiring Nesta’s elegance, tactical intelligence, and ability to read the game, Van Dijk has modelled parts of his own playing style on the iconic centre-back.
13. He is Highly Esteemed by Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland
Van Dijk’s abilities have earned him high praise from some of the game’s greatest players. Lionel Messi has acknowledged Van Dijk’s exceptional timing and defensive prowess, while Erling Haaland has described him as the toughest defender he has faced, highlighting Van Dijk’s speed, strength, and intelligence on the field. In an interview with Marca, Messi once said: 'He [Van Dijk] is a defender who knows how to judge his timing and wait for the right moment to challenge or jockey [the attacker]. He has a lot of agility for his height.'
14. His Salary and Net Worth are Well-Deserved
Virgil van Dijk’s salary and net worth are a testament to his remarkable talent, dedication, and impact on the football field. Earning around £220,000 per week, he stands among the highest-paid defenders in the world, reflecting his crucial role in Liverpool’s recent successes.
With a reported net worth of approximately £42 million, van Dijk’s financial success is derived from his impressive playing contract and lucrative endorsement deals with major brands like Nike, EA Sports, and Heineken. His performances have made him a regular contender for individual awards, including PFA Player of the Year and UEFA Men’s Player of the Year, further solidifying his status as one of the best defenders of his generation.
Per year | €13,586,544.40 | £11,440,508 |
Per month | €1,132,212 | £953,375 |
Per week | €261,279 | £220,009 |
Major Honours
Celtic
Scottish Premiership: 2013–14, 2014–15
Scottish League Cup: 2014–15
Liverpool
Premier League: 2019–20
FA Cup: 2021–22
EFL Cup: 2021–22, 2023–24
FA Community Shield: 2022
UEFA Champions League: 2018–19
UEFA Super Cup: 2019
FIFA Club World Cup: 2019
Commentaires