Virgil van Dijk has been crowned UEFA's 2018/19 Men's Player
of the Year.
The Liverpool defender beat Barcelona star Lionel Messi and
Juventus superstar Cristiano Ronaldo to win the award at a ceremony which took
place in Monaco, France on Thursday, August 29, 2019
The 28-year-old who also picked up the prize for the UEFA
Champions League defender of the year, played an influential role for Liverpool
as they won the Champions League and UEFA Super Cup. He also helped his team to
finish second place in the Premier League and reached the UEFA Nations League
final with Holland in the summer, where they were beaten by Portugal.
After he picked up the prize, he said: "I'm very proud
to get this trophy and it's all credit to everyone that has helped me along the
way."
The Dutch defender then revealed that he idolised Brazil
legend Ronaldinho as he grew up.
He added: "I looked up to a young player as Ronaldinho
as he had so much joy in the way he played - with his tricks.
"It was a great feeling to watch him play. "
Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson won the award for best
goalkeeper, while Frenkie De Jong took home the prize for the best midfielder.
Lionel Messi was crowned the UEFA forward of the year, but
was unable to beat Van Dijk to the overall award.
