Jaap Stam convinced: Liverpool man is “the best defender in the world” | OneFootball

Jaap Stam has come out as an ardent supporter of Virgil van Dijk in an interview with Algemeen Dagblad. The former PSV, Manchester United, Lazio, Milan, and Ajax defender told the Dutch outlet, “I think Virgil is the best defender in the world. Nobody’s perfect, but with his charisma, physique, heading ability, passing ability, and leadership skills, he has the whole package.”

Stam, who himself made a splash in England at United, doesn’t really see any weaknesses in Premier League stalwart Van Dijk. “Virgil has only got better in one-on-one situations. He’s the complete defender if you consider what the future demands of a defender,” says the former defender, who after his playing career managed Feyenoord, among others.

Van Dijk isn’t the only Dutch defender Stam reveres. He particularly praises Jurriën Timber, who has been at Arsenal since 2023. “When he went to Arsenal, you often heard: ‘Too young, don’t do it.’ I have enormous respect for what he showed there after his serious knee injury. Right side, left side, central, it doesn’t matter. He’s so good on the ball, positionally strong, quick, and powerful.”

GBeNeFN | Max Bradfield