Ronaldinho Replies to Van Dijk’s Gym Post as Admiration Goes Both Ways

Published: February 4, 2026 | Empire of the Kop

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk recently shared a striking gym workout video on Instagram, showcasing his immense physical prowess and dedication to fitness amid a challenging season for the Reds' defense. The post, captioned with a motivational quote about resilience, quickly went viral, amassing millions of views and likes from fans worldwide.

In a delightful turn of events, Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho, known for his dazzling skills and infectious joy, responded directly to Van Dijk's post. The 45-year-old icon commented, "Monstro! 💪🔥 Keep dominating!"—translating to "Monster!" in English—a nod to Van Dijk's towering 6'4" frame and defensive dominance. Ronaldinho added laughing emojis, blending admiration with his signature playfulness.

The mutual respect shines through, as Van Dijk had previously praised Ronaldinho as one of his childhood idols during a Liverpool press conference. "Ronaldinho's flair changed how I see the game—pure magic," Van Dijk said. This exchange highlights a rare bridge between generations, with the Dutch powerhouse reciprocating by liking and replying to Ronaldinho's stories multiple times in the past.

Fans flooded the comments with excitement: "GOAT recognizing GOAT!" and "Liverpool legends unite!" The interaction comes at a pivotal time for Liverpool, who are navigating a center-back injury crisis ahead of crucial matches, including their recent training session before facing Qarabag. Van Dijk's gym grind underscores his leadership, inspiring teammates like Alexis Mac Allister.

This heartwarming moment transcends club rivalries, celebrating football's global camaraderie. As admiration flows both ways, it reminds us why icons like Ronaldinho and Van Dijk endure—from samba flair to Anfield steel.

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