Virgil van Dijk has revealed that Jurgen Klopp's man-management was the key reason he chose Liverpool over Manchester City and Chelsea in 2018. The Dutch defender, who joined the Reds from Southampton for £75m in January 2018, has become one of the finest defenders of the modern era at Anfield, winning eight major trophies, including the Champions League and two Premier League titles.
Klopp's influence was decisive
In 2020, the 35-year-old admitted that Klopp, who left Liverpool in the summer of 2024 and now manages the German national team, was the biggest factor in his decision. "I had the chance to go to Chelsea and Man City," he said. "When you compare the clubs, you look at the history, the town, the current squad, their plans for the near future. But the most important thing you look at is the manager – and Jurgen Klopp is an important reason why I chose for Liverpool."
Van Dijk praised Klopp's unique qualities, saying: "Klopp has something special. Is it his energy? Is it his overall image? I sometimes sit and think about what he does and what he has more than others. I think it is his man-management. These days that is more important than anything in football. Klopp gives you this great feeling. He is genuinely happy when you walk into the club in the morning. It may sound daft, but that really inspires you as a player."
Van Dijk's commitment to Liverpool
Despite Klopp's departure, Van Dijk remained at Anfield and won the title under Arne Slot a year later. Upon signing a new deal in April 2025, which keeps him at the club until the summer of 2028, he said: "It was always Liverpool. That was the case. It was always in my head, it was always the plan and it was always Liverpool. There wasn't any doubt in my head that this is the place to be for me and my family. I'm one of Liverpool. Someone called me the other day an adopted Scouser – I'm really proud to hear these things, it gives me a great feeling."
He added: "It always felt right. I said it from the first day on that it felt right and I think it showed in the years we have spent together up until now... I love the city, I love the club, I love the fans. I love my teammates. I love everything that embodies Liverpool and on to many more."
