“It’s an amazing feeling” – Virgil van Dijk wins another award | OneFootball

Van Dijk Earns Another Place in FIFPRO World 11 as Peers Acknowledge His Enduring Influence

Liverpool’s captain has once again secured his position among the game’s elite, with confirmation of his inclusion in the latest FIFPRO Men’s World 11 — a testament to both performance and consistency at the highest level. This latest recognition extends a remarkable sequence that places him among a select group of modern greats.

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Peer Recognition Elevating Van Dijk’s Legacy

The latest voting cycle polled more than 26,000 professional footballers from across the world, each choosing the standout performers between August 2024 and July 2025. For defenders in particular, acknowledgement from opponents and team-mates carries a unique resonance. Those casting votes are the same players who deal with his aerial dominance, positional command and leadership on a regular basis.

With this selection, the Liverpool and Netherlands captain reaches five career inclusions in the FIFPRO World 11 — a milestone matched by only three other players since the award’s inception in 2005. Only nine individuals have been chosen more frequently, placing him firmly in elite historical company. His presence on that list is no coincidence; it reflects years of high-level performances in domestic, European and international football.

Van Dijk described the honour as something to savour, particularly because it comes directly from fellow professionals who understand the physical and psychological demands of today’s game. He emphasised that recognition from peers remains one of the sport’s most meaningful markers of esteem.

Consistency Defining an Exceptional Career

In a season shaped by tactical evolution and increased physical demands, his ability to maintain composure, lead the defensive line and elevate the performance of those around him has been central to Liverpool’s progress. That influence goes beyond technical excellence; his communication, reading of transitions and guidance of younger players have become essential components of his team’s structure.

Such qualities underpin why FIFPRO voters continue to place him among football’s finest. His latest inclusion also highlights the importance of durability — recovering from setbacks, adapting to tactical tweaks under new managerial approaches and maintaining high performance levels across multiple competitions. Few defenders in the modern era combine these elements with the same authority.

Elite Company Reinforcing His Standing

This fifth appearance links him historically with names long associated with consistency and excellence. From Europe’s top midfield orchestrators to goalkeeping legends and commanding centre-backs of previous generations, the company he keeps on this list further validates his impact on the sport.

For Liverpool, the recognition reflects the broader progress of their team under new leadership and the stability brought by experienced figures in the dressing room. His continued presence at the top level — both domestically and internationally — remains a cornerstone of their ambitions moving forward.

Looking Ahead with Renewed Motivation

As he noted, these honours are never taken for granted. Alongside other peer-voted accolades, such as inclusion in seasonal domestic teams, the FIFPRO selection serves as motivation to continue performing at the highest standard. For a player whose reputation has been built on preparation, mentality and reliability, this recognition reinforces the trajectory of a career marked by excellence.