Legendary Italian centre-back Alessandro Nesta believes Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk remains the best defender on the planet — even during a challenging spell for the Premier League champions.
Speaking to GOAL, Nesta named Van Dijk as his current top defender, praising his consistency, longevity, and ability to dominate in the toughest league in world football.
“For me now, Van Dijk — Van Dijk is the best,” Nesta said. “The best because he performs every year at the same level, he plays in the Premier League, the toughest league. For me, he is the best.”
The comments come as Liverpool enter the international break after three straight defeats, including a 2–1 loss to Chelsea. Despite spending nearly £450 million in the summer window, Arne Slot’s side have struggled to find rhythm and balance, leaving them two points behind Arsenal at the top of the table.
Yet even in a turbulent period, Nesta insists Van Dijk remains the benchmark for defensive excellence — a player who has redefined what it means to be a modern centre-back.
Van Dijk Still Setting the Standard
Now 34, Van Dijk has been one of the few Liverpool players to emerge with credit in recent weeks. His leadership and composure continue to stand out amid defensive instability, with new arrivals Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez still settling into Slot’s system.
The Dutchman’s late winner against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League — a 92nd-minute header — served as a reminder of his enduring influence at both ends of the pitch.
While Van Dijk’s form has been criticised by sections of the Dutch media, particularly following a “weak” display in the 4–0 win over Malta, Nesta believes such scrutiny only highlights the high standards the defender has set for himself.
“For me now, Van Dijk is the best. He performs every year at the same level, in the toughest league in the world.” — Alessandro Nesta, via GOAL
Leadership Through Transition
Van Dijk’s importance extends beyond defending. With Liverpool undergoing major tactical and personnel changes, he remains the cornerstone of Slot’s rebuild — guiding a reshaped backline and maintaining calm under pressure.
The Reds have conceded nine goals in their opening seven Premier League games, compared to just two at this stage last season, reflecting the growing pains of a new system. But Van Dijk’s presence ensures the team still has a leader capable of stabilising a shifting squad.
| Stat (2025/26) | Virgil van Dijk |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 11 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Clean Sheets | 4 |
| Duels Won | 73% |
| Pass Accuracy | 91% |
source: sofascore match data – 11 October 2025
These numbers show why Van Dijk remains indispensable — statistically dominant, aerially commanding, and still a model of consistency.
Salah’s Backing for His Captain
While Van Dijk has faced external criticism, he continues to receive unwavering support from within the Liverpool dressing room. Mohamed Salah, who has also endured a dip in form this season, insists his captain remains central to the club’s ambitions.
“Our captain,” Salah said. “He will probably lead us to the Champions League and Premier League again.”
The Egyptian forward’s comments reflect the unity inside the squad, with players confident that Van Dijk’s leadership will help steer them through their current slump.
Analyst Verdict – “A Standard Setter”
FootballPlace analyst John William echoed Nesta’s view, describing Van Dijk as “a standard setter” for defenders worldwide. “Even when Liverpool wobble, Van Dijk doesn’t panic. He’s not just physically dominant — his reading of the game and positional intelligence remain unmatched,” he said.
William added: “Nesta knows elite defending better than anyone. If he says Van Dijk is still the best, that carries serious weight. The fact that he’s leading a new-look backline at 34 tells you everything about his professionalism.”
Key Insights
- Alessandro Nesta calls Virgil van Dijk “the best defender in the world”.
- Liverpool captain praised for consistency and longevity in the Premier League.
- Despite Reds’ struggles, Van Dijk remains Slot’s defensive leader.
- Mohamed Salah backs Van Dijk to lead Liverpool to more trophies.
- New-look backline still adjusting to life under Arne Slot.
What’s Next for Van Dijk and Liverpool
Liverpool return to action after the international break against Aston Villa on 19 October, desperate to regain momentum after three consecutive defeats. For Van Dijk, the focus will be on restoring defensive solidity and guiding his teammates through another testing period.
With Nesta’s glowing endorsement and the faith of his manager and teammates, the Dutch defender remains the face of leadership at Anfield — and, according to one of football’s greatest defenders, still the best in the business.
👉 Do you agree with Alessandro Nesta — is Virgil van Dijk still the best defender in the world?
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