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Salah and Van Dijk Shine Among Football’s Elite in 2024 XI

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Liverpool’s global fanbase has every reason to celebrate as Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk were named in the 2024 Team of the Year, as chosen by followers of football platform Transfermarkt. This annual poll, conducted through Instagram stories, highlights the finest players across world football and culminates in a starting XI valued at an astonishing €745 million.

Salah’s Everlasting Brilliance

Mohamed Salah’s inclusion in the team underlines his continued dominance as one of football’s most influential forwards. Valued at €45 million, Salah remains a key figure at Liverpool, combining a talismanic presence with consistent performances. Despite stiff competition from other world-class forwards, Salah’s undeniable impact on Liverpool’s attacking identity cemented his place in this elite lineup.

The Egyptian maestro has long been a symbol of excellence for Liverpool fans, who continue to admire his goal-scoring prowess and leadership on the pitch. Salah’s presence in the team reflects not only his enduring talent but also the respect he commands among global football enthusiasts.

Van Dijk’s Commanding Presence

Virgil van Dijk, valued at €30 million, joins Salah in the fans’ XI, representing the defensive cornerstone of Liverpool’s success. While critics have occasionally questioned his form in recent seasons, this recognition highlights the enduring qualities of Van Dijk that set him apart as one of football’s premier defenders.

Photo: IMAGO

The Dutch centre-back remains an irreplaceable figure in Liverpool’s backline, offering composure, leadership, and an unparalleled ability to read the game. His inclusion in the Team of the Year is a testament to his reliability and the high regard in which he is held by supporters around the globe.

Broader Context of the XI

Transfermarkt’s annual poll brought together established global stars and rising talents. Jude Bellingham, valued at a staggering €180 million, was a predictable inclusion following his extraordinary season. Similarly, Vinícius Jr. (€180M) and Rodri (€130M) were shoo-ins, given their consistent brilliance at club and international levels.

However, fans added a touch of unpredictability with selections such as Viktor Gyökeres (€70M) and Alex Grimaldo (€45M), underlining football’s appeal as a sport where unexpected heroes can rise to prominence.

Liverpool’s Legacy in 2024

Liverpool’s representation in this prestigious XI not only honours Salah and Van Dijk but also reinforces the club’s continued relevance on the global stage. Their inclusion reflects the high standards upheld at Anfield, where players are expected to deliver at the highest level consistently.

Salah’s attacking genius and Van Dijk’s defensive mastery are not merely attributes of individual brilliance but also symbols of Liverpool’s identity as a team that combines flair with resilience. As fans celebrate this recognition, it serves as a reminder of the club’s rich history and enduring ambition to remain at the summit of world football.

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