**Ex-Chelsea striker Didier Drogba has labelled Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk as “the best defender in the world right now”.**
The Dutch colossus has had his naysayers among pundits and rival fans in the past but, when asked who he rates the highest, Drogba replied:
“Who is the best defender in the world right now? Wow, it is difficult for me to say, but I’ll go with van Dijk.”
Drogba was a handful for any defender in his prime, with Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher (in particular) finding life tough against him, but you’d think that van Dijk would give him a run for his money.
Drogba was also asked to pick his favourites in other positions
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In an interview with _Goal Africa_, the former Ivory Coast international was also quizzed on who he believes is the best goalkeeper, midfielder and striker in the world. He went with Real Madrid’s Thibaut Courtois, and Manchester City pair Rodri & Erling Haaland.
Drogba was then given the task of judging the best ever in each position. He chose Petr Cech, Franz Beckenbauer, Diego Maradona and Ronaldo Nazario.
Will Van Dijk stay at Liverpool?
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[**Reports**](https://walkon.com/blog/liverpool-news-virgil-van-dijk-contract-fans/) over the past few days have suggested that the Dutchman is likely to sign a new contract. Although, at the time of writing, nothing has been made official by the club.
Van Dijk’s current deal expires at the end of the season and he was giving nothing away when he was asked directly about his future after the 2-0 win over Real Madrid midweek.
At 33 years of age, the defender is still at his peak, and that should be more than enough to convince the club that he deserves an extension. We shall have to wait and see if he does sign on the dotted line.
[**Find out who is in Liverpool’s first-team squad for 2024/2025 season here**](https://walkon.com/blog/liverpool-first-team-squad-transfer-news/)