“It is a special gift from the Club for Van Dijk: a show of appreciation for the career of the former Willem II youth player, which grew to became one of the best defenses in the world,” said Willem II.
«At the same time, the tribute is linked to the future, because Van Dijk will return this year to Tilburg the Virgil’s Legacy Trophy of the International Youth Tournament.
«With this, his name is not only immortalized in the rich history of Willem II, but is also emphatically linked to the development of youth football in the city.
“With this gesture, the Willem II underlines the special link with one of its greatest talents and the club wants to permanently inspire the new generations of young players.”
Of course, Van Dijk has established himself as one of the most important plants of his generation for his club and his country, becoming the first Dutchman to captain a team to win the title of the Premier League, when Liverpool won the trophy last season.
Eight medals, 323 games and 28 goals are the headlines of his impressive record in Anfield, and remains very grateful for the early influence that Willem II had on his way to success.
“I am very proud,” said Van Dijk about the tribute. «The Willem II has played an important role in my life and in my development as a young player
.
«That it is now recognized in this way means a lot to me and my family. It is a very special tribute and appreciate the warmth and connection that I still feel with the club ».
