Why is Virgil Van Dijk Not Playing? Where is Virgil Van Dijk Now?
by Sangamithra
Updated Jan 08, 2024
Why is Virgil Van Dijk Not Playing?
Virgil van Dijk, Liverpool's defensive stalwart, is notably absent from the FA Cup clash against Arsenal due to illness. The Dutch center-back, a key figure in Liverpool's backline, has been a linchpin in the team's defensive setup. Manager Jürgen Klopp, while addressing the team selection, highlighted the challenge of making rotations, emphasizing the significance of the Arsenal match.
Van Dijk's absence is a surprising development, as it was revealed shortly before kick-off. The defensive responsibilities in his stead fall to young talent Jarell Quansah. Despite the setback, Liverpool fans can take solace in the fact that Van Dijk's ailment is characterized as a short-term illness rather than a more severe injury. The team will undoubtedly miss his commanding presence on the field, hoping for a swift recovery for the influential Dutch defender.
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Who is Virgil Van Dijk?
Virgil van Dijk is a Dutch professional footballer renowned for his skills as a center-back. Standing at 1.95 meters (6 feet 5 inches), he currently plays for Liverpool in the Premier League and captains the Netherlands national team. Van Dijk started his career at Groningen, later moving to Celtic in 2013 where he achieved success in the Scottish Premiership. He then joined Southampton in 2015 before making a £75 million transfer to Liverpool in 2018, a record fee for a defender at the time.
Van Dijk has excelled in his defensive role, earning recognition for his strength, leadership, speed, and aerial prowess. His accomplishments include winning the UEFA Champions League, and FIFA Club World Cup, and helping Liverpool secure the 2019–20 Premier League title. Notably, he is the only defender to have received the UEFA Men's Player of the Year Award. Van Dijk also captains the Dutch national team, leading them to the UEFA Nations League final in 2019 and representing them in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Full Name
Virgil van Dijk
Date of Birth
July 8, 1991
Place of Birth
Breda, Netherlands
Nationality
Dutch
Position
Centre-back
Height
1.95 m (6 ft 5 in)
Current Team
Liverpool (as of last available information)
Jersey Number
4
Youth Career
Willem II (2009–2010), Groningen (2010–2011)
Senior Career
Groningen (2011–2013), Celtic (2013–2015), Southampton (2015–2018), Liverpool (2018–present)
International Career
Netherlands (2015–present)
Notable Achievements
UEFA Champions League winner (2019), FIFA Club World Cup winner (2019), PFA Players' Player of the Year (2019), UEFA Men's Player of the Year (2019).
Virgil Van Dijk Early Life
Virgil van Dijk, born in Breda, Netherlands, had a challenging early life. His parents separated when he was 11, and he chose to live with his mother after a brief stay with his father. Growing up in Kesteren, Breda, he played football anywhere he could, from streets to concrete cages.
Starting at the WDS'19 youth team, he later joined Willem II at 8, juggling football with a part-time dishwasher job as a teen. Initially trying as a right back, Van Dijk switched to central defense in 2008, impressively growing 18 centimeters taller. Despite initial setbacks at Willem II, he found success with FC Groningen at 19, joining on a free transfer in 2010.
Virgil Van Dijk Career
Virgil van Dijk, born in Breda, Netherlands, embarked on a remarkable football career. Starting at Willem II's academy, he faced challenges initially at Groningen before making his mark. Despite health setbacks, he played a crucial role in Groningen's defense, showcasing resilience. In 2013, Van Dijk joined Celtic, contributing significantly in both the Scottish Premiership and UEFA competitions.
His standout performances earned him a move to Southampton in the Premier League in 2015, where he became a key player and received accolades. Liverpool secured Van Dijk's services in January 2018 for a then-world-record fee for a defender. His impact was immediate, earning him praise for solidifying Liverpool's defense. In the 2018–19 season, he received numerous awards, including the PFA Players' Player of the Year.
A knee injury in 2020 temporarily sidelined Van Dijk, but he made a triumphant return in the 2021–22 season. Despite challenges, he continued to be a defensive stalwart, contributing to Liverpool's successes in domestic competitions. Van Dijk's leadership extends to the international stage, captaining the Netherlands and leading them to the UEFA Nations League final in 2019. His career is marked by resilience, individual awards, and crucial contributions to team achievements.
Virgil Van Dijk Age
Virgil van Dijk was born on July 8, 1991, making him 32 years old. The Dutch professional footballer, known for his exceptional skills as a center-back, has established himself as one of the top defenders in the world.
Van Dijk's career has been highlighted by successful stints with clubs like Groningen, Celtic, Southampton, and Liverpool. His leadership on the field, physical prowess, and defensive capabilities have earned him numerous accolades, including being the only defender to receive the UEFA Men's Player of the Year Award.
Virgil Van Dijk Net Worth
Virgil van Dijk's net worth is estimated to be $30 million. The Dutch footballer has garnered substantial wealth through his successful career. Van Dijk began playing professionally with clubs like Groningen and Celtic before joining the Premier League side Southampton in 2015.
His move to Liverpool in 2018, for a then-world-record fee for a defender, further enhanced his financial standing. Apart from earning from his club contracts, Van Dijk's endorsements and sponsorships contribute to his net worth. His leadership and outstanding skills on the field have solidified his status as one of football's top earners.
Where is Virgil Van Dijk Now?
As of now, Virgil van Dijk remains associated with Liverpool FC. The influential Dutch center-back, known for his defensive prowess, is, unfortunately, absent from Liverpool's FA Cup clash against Arsenal due to illness. The nature of the illness is described as short-term, offering hope for a prompt return to the pitch.
Van Dijk's commanding presence in Liverpool's defense has been pivotal, and his temporary absence leaves a void in the team's backline. Fans eagerly await his recovery, as he continues to play a crucial role in Liverpool's pursuit of success in domestic and international competitions.
Why is Virgil Van Dijk Not Playing - FAQs
Virgil Van Dijk is absent due to illness, as confirmed by manager Jürgen Klopp, who opted not to risk the defender's health in the crucial match.
Van Dijk's illness is described as short-term, providing hope for a swift recovery and his return to Liverpool's defensive lineup.
Young talent Jarell Quansah stepped in for Van Dijk in the FA Cup clash against Arsenal, taking on the defensive responsibilities.
Liverpool is without Mohamed Salah and Wataru Endo, who are on international duty, and Dominik Szoboszlai, sidelined with a hamstring issue.
While Van Dijk has faced injuries, this current absence is attributed to a short-term illness rather than a severe injury.