Brentford’s Igor Thiago is one of the Premier League’s breakout stars this season, and has now had the chance to assess Virgil van Dijk as an opponent.
When Thomas Frank left Brentford, it was thought the Bees would be in for the fight of their lives to avoid relegation, but that was plain wrong.
Under Keith Andrews, and with the help of Thiago’s 16 league goals, they find themselves battling for Europe, just three points behind Liverpool.
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Earlier this season, Thiago converted from the spot to help Brentford defeat Liverpool 3-2, but he didn’t find it easy facing off against the Dutchman.
Igor Thiago on just how good Virgil van Dijk is
Thiago has been giving centre-backs up and down the league serious problems.
The Brazilian is physical and intelligent, with a knack for sniffing out opportunities close to goal.
But facing Van Dijk was no cakewalk.
Asked by TNT Sports Brasil for his toughest ever opponent, he said: ““Virgil van Dijk. He’s everything people say about him. Fast, strong.”
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Since coming to the Premier League, there hasn’t been a central defender to reach the levels of Van Dijk. He was getting Ballon d’Or shouts for his ability to contain some of the best attackers in the world.
Van Dijk has taken heat from Liverpool fans recently, especially for his blunder against Bournemouth, but it doesn’t take away from how talented a defender he truly is.
What would your response be to Virgil van Dijk?
Liverpool supporters have had enough this season 🫣
Virgil van Dijk pictured in action during Liverpool's UEFA Champions League match against Inter Milan at San Siro (Credit: Getty Images/Giuseppe Cottini).
Photo Credit: Getty Images/Guiseppe Cottini
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Van Dijk and Thiago meet again on the final day of the season
Liverpool will round out their Premier League campaign against Brentford at Anfield.
They will be hoping for an improvement on October’s reverse fixture, which came at a low point in the season for the Reds.
With how the table looks currently, that game could well be decisive for both teams’ European ambitions. Certainly for Liverpool, you would imagine every result will be crucial for getting Champions League football next season — not least the final day.
Slot is backing Liverpool for a top-four finish. Where do you think the Reds will end 25/26?
Slot predicted Liverpool will earn Champions League football in his pre-Bournemouth press conference!
Arne Slot prior to Liverpool v Leeds United - Premier League
Credit: Liverpool FC/Getty Images
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That battle between the striker and centre-back will have a new chapter written. Hopefully Van Dijk — and Liverpool — can come out on top.
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