Jürgen Klopp made a shrewd decision when he named Virgil van Dijk as Liverpool captain following Jordan Henderson’s departure in the summer of 2023.
Across his eight years at Anfield, the Dutch centre-back has proven himself a dominant presence on the pitch — leading through performances, authority, and a commanding voice at the heart of Liverpool’s defence.
Beyond his influence in games, the 34-year-old has also shown himself to be an outstanding representative of the club off the field. That was evident in moments such as his determination to include Alan Hansen and Mark and Jo McVeigh of the Owen McVeigh Foundation during the Premier League trophy presentation last May.
Van Dijk shares touching moment with Diogo Jota’s children
Liverpool’s 2-1 win over Wolves on Saturday carried deep emotional weight, as fans from both sides honoured the late Diogo Jota — a player who served both clubs with distinction — in their first meeting since his tragic passing in July. Jota’s sons, Dinis and Duarte, accompanied the players onto the pitch before kick-off, and Van Dijk shared a warm, heartfelt moment with them shortly beforehand.
As You’ll Never Walk Alone echoed around Anfield, the Liverpool captain enjoyed a gentle kickabout with his former teammate’s children in the penalty area in front of the Kop — a simple but powerful gesture.
A moment of real class from Van Dijk
That brief interaction spoke volumes about Van Dijk’s character. On the brink of an important Premier League match, he paused to share a light-hearted moment with the children, understanding the significance of compassion and care on such an emotional day for the Silva family.
As a father himself, the Reds skipper knows that while success on the pitch matters greatly, family always comes first.
Supporters inside Anfield were undoubtedly moved by the gesture, while both sets of fans united in tribute to Jota, with chants in his memory during the 18th and 20th minutes warmly applauded throughout the stadium.
As 2025 comes to an end, Diogo Jota and his family remain firmly in the hearts of everyone connected with Liverpool FC. His legacy will live on forever on Merseyside — and at Molineux too.
