Manchester City defender Joško Gvardiol has revealed his admiration for Virgil van Dijk, admitting the Liverpool captain was one of his favourite defenders growing up.
Despite his £77.6 million move from RB Leipzig to Manchester City in 2023, the Croatian international remains a self-proclaimed Liverpool fan. Now a regular starter under Pep Guardiola, Gvardiol often finds himself competing directly with his boyhood idol for domestic glory.
Speaking to ESPN, Gvardiol was asked to name the defenders who inspired him as a youngster. His answer was both telling and heartfelt.
Players Gvardiol admires in his position
“Definitely Ramos. Sergio Ramos. Uh, Virgil van Dijk as well.” — Joško Gvardiol, via ESPN
The 23-year-old’s admiration comes at a time when Van Dijk is under pressure to steady a struggling Liverpool backline. After conceding nine goals in their first seven league matches, the Reds’ defensive vulnerabilities have become one of Arne Slot’s main challenges.
Van Dijk remains Liverpool’s defensive benchmark
Van Dijk, 34, continues to be the emotional and tactical anchor at Anfield. His leadership was once again on display during the international break, where he impressed for the Netherlands. Despite Liverpool’s inconsistent start, Van Dijk’s form suggests he still has plenty to offer — especially as the Reds prepare to face Manchester United this weekend.
With Ibrahima Konaté out of form and new signings Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong yet to convince, Van Dijk’s experience and organisation will be crucial if Liverpool are to rediscover their defensive rhythm.
How does Joško Gvardiol compare to Virgil van Dijk?
Interestingly, Gvardiol was once on Liverpool’s radar before joining City, and many fans still wonder how a Van Dijk–Gvardiol partnership might have looked. Both players combine elite technical quality with composure under pressure — traits essential for modern centre-backs.
Statistically, Gvardiol’s debut Premier League season mirrored Van Dijk’s influence, highlighting how closely aligned their defensive contributions are.
| Player (2024/25 Premier League) | Appearances | Pass Accuracy | Long Ball Accuracy | Duels Won | Tackles | Interceptions | Recoveries |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virgil van Dijk | 37 | 91.7% | 55.8% | 68.7% | 38 | 56 | 115 |
| Joško Gvardiol | 37 | 91.4% | 53.5% | 61% | 58 | 44 | 137 |
source: Fotmob – 17 October 2025
These numbers reveal striking similarities: Van Dijk’s dominance in aerial duels and organisation contrasts with Gvardiol’s mobility and higher recovery rate — two defenders at the peak of different strengths.
Gvardiol’s admiration shows Van Dijk’s wider legacy
Van Dijk’s influence on younger defenders like Gvardiol underscores his wider impact on the next generation. Since arriving in the Premier League in 2018, the Dutchman has redefined expectations for what a modern centre-back should be — blending athleticism, leadership, and tactical clarity.
Gvardiol’s open respect reflects that evolution. Many players in their early twenties grew up watching Van Dijk’s rise from Southampton to Champions League champion, and his calm authority has become a model for defenders across Europe. It’s a reminder that beyond trophies, Van Dijk’s legacy lies in how he has shaped others’ understanding of defensive excellence.
Could Gvardiol one day replace Van Dijk’s presence in the league?
Although Gvardiol now wears Manchester City blue, he could well inherit Van Dijk’s mantle as the Premier League’s most complete defender in years to come. The Croatian’s ball-carrying, positional awareness, and confidence under Guardiola have already made him one of the top-rated young defenders in world football.
As Van Dijk enters the twilight of his career, Gvardiol’s continued admiration and development offer a symbolic passing of the torch. The rivalry between Liverpool and City may define the title race again — but it also reflects a story of inspiration coming full circle.
Analyst Verdict — by Liam Rowe, FootballPlace
In my view, Gvardiol’s comments reveal not just respect, but a lineage of defensive excellence. Van Dijk remains the gold standard for leadership and composure, while Gvardiol represents the new breed of proactive defenders blending tactical awareness with technical confidence.
We believe both players embody different eras of elite defending — one defined by presence, the other by progression. And if Liverpool once missed their chance to pair them, Premier League fans can still appreciate watching two of Europe’s finest centre-backs battle for supremacy.
Key Insights
- Gvardiol names Virgil van Dijk among his childhood inspirations.
- The Croatian defender remains a self-confessed Liverpool fan despite joining City.
- Van Dijk’s leadership crucial as Liverpool face defensive challenges.
- Statistical comparison highlights their similar technical levels.
- Van Dijk’s influence continues shaping the next generation of defenders.
What’s Next
Manchester City and Liverpool are both back in Premier League action this weekend, continuing their early title push. For Gvardiol, another meeting with his idol could arrive later this year — when the two defenders face off at Anfield in December.
As Van Dijk looks to steady Liverpool’s defence and Gvardiol aims to cement his legacy at City, their evolving rivalry promises to define another thrilling chapter in the Premier League story.
👉 Who’s the better all-round defender right now — Van Dijk or Gvardiol?
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