Virgil van Dijk officially has stand named in his honour
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Image Credits: Imago ImagesVirgil van Dijk has enjoyed a whirlwind few months at Anfield.
In mid-April, the Dutch centre-back committed his future to Liverpool by signing a new two-year contract, extending his stay until 2027 and ending months of speculation over his long-term plans.
Shortly afterwards, he achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Dutch player ever to captain a side to the Premier League title, lifting the trophy as Liverpool secured the championship under Arne Slot’s debut season in charge.
Off the pitch, Van Dijk has also turned his attention to nurturing the next generation of talent.
In July, he unveiled the details of the inaugural Virgil’s Legacy Trophy—an under-13 international youth tournament to be held at his former club Willem II’s facilities in Tilburg.
Sixteen elite academies from across Europe will compete in group and knockout stages from 13–14 September, with the finals staged at the Koning Willem II Stadium.
And it looks like the plaudits are contining to rain for the legendary Liverpool skipper.
In a heartfelt tribute to one of its most illustrious former talents, Willem II has officially named the club’s youth stand the Virgil van Dijk Tribune.
The ceremony, held at the Willem II Academy complex on Saturday, saw academy players, coaches, club officials, and Van Dijk’s family gather to witness the unveiling of the newly refurbished stand and commemorative plaque.
The Virgil van Dijk Tribune features seating for 200 spectators, improved shelter, and enhanced viewing angles tailored for youth matches.
In addition to the plaque engraved with Van Dijk’s signature and career milestones, the stand’s front façade displays a portrait montage charting his rise from Willem II debutant to world-class defender.
Speaking at the event, Van Dijk reflected on his formative years at the Tilburg-based club:
“Willem II gave me my first chance in football, and it’s incredibly special to see the next generation cheering from a stand that bears my name.”
Club director of youth development, Mark Verbruggen, added, “Virgil’s journey from our youth teams to captaining Liverpool and the Netherlands is an inspiration
This stand will motivate our academy players every time they step onto the pitch.”
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