Virgil van Dijk Names Messi Toughest Foe and Backs Iraola’s Liverpool
Virgil van Dijk has identified Lionel Messi as the most difficult opponent of his career, while also backing Liverpool to make progress under Andoni Iraola in 2026-27 and highlighting Alexander Isak as a player to follow next season.
Key points from Van Dijk’s interview
| Topic | Detail | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Toughest opponent | Lionel Messi | Van Dijk also praised Cristiano Ronaldo |
| Player to watch | Alexander Isak | Selection for the 2026-27 campaign |
| Defining Liverpool memory | 4-1 win over Tottenham | League-clinching day after Liverpool fell 1-0 behind |
Asked to choose the opponent who tested him most, the Liverpool defender selected Messi and placed the Argentine alongside Ronaldo among the game’s outstanding modern forwards. Van Dijk said there had been many high-quality Premier League strikers during his career, but felt the two global stars deserved particular recognition.
The Netherlands international, a two-time Premier League winner, also pointed to Isak as a player likely to attract attention in the coming season.
Van Dijk gave an encouraging assessment of Iraola’s early work at Anfield, describing the new Liverpool manager as a demanding coach whose sessions place a strong emphasis on training. He said the Spaniard wants his side to play attractive football with intensity while still enjoying the work.
He also noted Iraola’s communication style and the relationship he has built with his staff, saying the manager and his coaches work well together. Van Dijk believes that combination can help Liverpool have a successful season.
A league-winning day at Anfield
Reflecting on his most emotional Liverpool moment since arriving from Southampton in 2018, Van Dijk chose the Tottenham match in which the club sealed the league title.
He recalled urging supporters during the preceding week to fill the stadium with red, with the sunny Anfield setting making a lasting impression. Liverpool had to recover after Dominic Solanke put Tottenham ahead, but went on to win 4-1.
Van Dijk said he was emotional after the final whistle and shed tears as “You’ll Never Walk Alone” rang out in front of the Kop, describing it as an exceptional occasion for both the squad and supporters.
