Virgil van Dijk Receives Enduring Honour from Former Club Willem II

Dutch powerhouse Willem II has paid a lasting tribute to one of their most celebrated academy products, Virgil van Dijk, by officially naming a stand at their youth stadium the “Virgil van Dijk Tribune.” This unique honour celebrates the enduring connection between the Liverpool captain and the club where his illustrious journey began.

A Colossal Force in Modern Football

At 34, Virgil van Dijk remains widely regarded as one of the finest centre-backs in the world. Since his monumental move to Liverpool in 2018, he has transformed the Reds’ defence, making over 300 appearances and securing football’s most coveted trophies, including the Premier League and Champions League. His leadership and defensive prowess have cemented his status as a modern-day legend.

From Tilburg to Global Stardom

Van Dijk’s footballing education began in Tilburg, where he spent 11 formative years within Willem II’s youth system before moving to Groningen in 2010. Despite never featuring for Willem II’s senior team, his bond with the club has remained strong. This dedication is evident in his active involvement with the “Virgil’s Legacy Trophy,” an Under-13s tournament designed to bring together all the clubs he has represented.

This September, the tournament in Tilburg will host Liverpool, Southampton, Celtic, Groningen, Willem II, and 11 other teams, celebrating Van Dijk’s journey and inspiring the next generation of talent.

A Deeply Personal Tribute

Expressing his gratitude, Van Dijk shared his pride in the honour:

“It makes me very proud. Willem II has played an important role in my life and in my development as a young player. That this is now recognised in this way means a lot to me and my family. It is a very special tribute and I appreciate the warmth and connection I still feel with the club.”

An Inspiration for Future Generations

Merijn Goris, Willem II’s general manager, highlighted the significance of the gesture:

“Virgil means so much to Willem II and to our youth academy. We wanted to give him something lasting. This tribute is not only a thank you for bringing back the international youth tournament, but also an inspiration to our youth players. Virgil is the perfect example of what hard work and perseverance can lead to. With this tribute, we show our youth players that dreams are achievable.”

This dedication serves as a powerful reminder of the impact Van Dijk has had, not just on the global stage, but also at the grassroots level where his journey began. It’s a testament to his character and an enduring source of inspiration for aspiring footballers within the Willem II academy.

Published: September 10, 2025