'Incredibly proud' - Virgil van Dijk receives special tribute as Liverpool star's former team name stand and youth competition after him

Van Dijk returned to his former team Willem II to receive a special honour, as the youth academy’s main stand at Sportpark Prinsenhoeve was officially renamed the "Virgil van Dijk Tribune". The Liverpool captain, who spent over a decade in the club’s academy before becoming one of the world’s best defenders, attended the unveiling ceremony in Tilburg. The tribute also coincided with the launch of the Virgil’s Legacy Trophy, an international youth tournament founded by Van Dijk, which will bring 16 youth teams from around the world to Tilburg.

The 34-year-old has become a global icon as Liverpool’s skipper, winning the Premier League and Champions League while also signing a new contract until 2027. Yet his journey began in Willem II’s academy, and the Dutch club wanted to immortalise his contribution both to their history and to the inspiration of future generations. The move underlines Willem II’s ongoing bond with one of their most successful products, while also strengthening youth development in the region through the tournament.

Van Dijk expressed his gratitude and reflected on his deep connection with Willem II, calling the tribute one of the most meaningful moments of his career: “It makes me incredibly proud that the stand at the youth academy is named after me. Willem II played an important role in my life and in my development as a young player. That this is now being recognised in this way means a great deal to me and my family. It’s a very special tribute, and I appreciate the warmth and connection I still feel with the club.”

The Virgil van Dijk Stand will officially open this weekend alongside the first edition of the Virgil’s Legacy Trophy. With 300 youth players and 16 international teams taking part, the tournament is set to become a major fixture in Tilburg’s football calendar further cementing Van Dijk’s legacy at Willem II.