**Former Manchester United centre-half Jaap Stam has labelled Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk “the best defender in the world.”**
The Dutchman was full of praise for his compatriot, claiming he possesses every attribute needed to thrive at the highest level:
“I think Virgil is the best defender in the world. Nobody’s perfect, but with his charisma, physique, heading ability, passing ability, and leadership skills, he has the whole package.”
“Virgil has only gotten better in one-on-one situations. He’s the complete defender if you consider what the future demands of a defender.”
Van Dijk has had a great start to the season
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Many would be expecting to see the Netherlands international’s game gradually deteriorate as he hits 34 years of age, but it is important to point out that he has never relied on his pace.
As Stam mentions, van Dijk’s strengths lie in other areas. He is still winning aerial duels, and he intimidates opposing forwards in one-on-ones, using his sizeable frame and composure to get him out of trouble.
The [**centre-back**](https://walkon.com/blog/liverpool-news-ibrahima-konate-ferdinand/) has been excellent at the beginning of the campaign, even if the rest of the defence hasn’t been quite as solid.
Is Liverpool’s talisman the best in the world?
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Some rival fans may feel that the title of the “best defender” should be given to someone younger, who is still considered to be in his ‘prime’.
Arsenal fans would certainly feel William Saliba and/or Gabriel are candidates, while those in Italy would probably name someone like Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni. PSG’s Willian Pacho and Marquinhos are a pretty formidable pairing as well.
However, van Dijk’s consistency and the fact that he is going up against some of the best players in the world every week in the Premier League means his place at the top is well deserved.
[**Read more about the Liverpool First Team Squad for 2025/26 here**](https://walkon.com/blog/liverpool-first-team-squad/)