At first glance, Cristiano Ronaldo and Virgil van Dijk belong to different football worlds. One is a legend of attack, the other is an icon of defense. One strives to set records for the number of goals scored throughout his career, the other blocks the path to these records. But if you delve into their biographies, playing characteristics and personal qualities, you can find a lot in common. Let’s consider what unites these two outstanding footballers, despite the difference in their roles.
Cristiano Ronaldo is a name that is associated with goalscoring feats, incredible physical fitness and a constant desire to be the best. He is an example of a forward who has remained at the top of world football for more than two decades, playing for clubs such as Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus and others. Virgil van Dijk, although he plays on the opposite side of the football field, achieved comparable greatness as a defender. The Dutchman, playing for Southampton and then Liverpool, became not only a key figure for his team, but also a symbol of a new era of defenders – fast, smart and tactically competent. His leadership on the field helped Liverpool win the Champions League in 2019 and the English Premier League for the first time in 30 years. Both players have become true symbols of their eras. Ronaldo embodies the era of super-talented strikers, while van Dijk embodies the era of versatile defenders.
If you ask Ronaldo what makes him the best, he will most likely answer: “My discipline.” Throughout his career, the Portuguese has demonstrated phenomenal physical fitness, which remains at a level even at 38 years old. His training, nutrition and sleep patterns have long been legendary in the football environment. Ronaldo is the living embodiment of the idea that success on the pitch is achieved through constant self-improvement. Van Dijk, although less public about his approach to physical training, also demonstrates outstanding athleticism. His height (193 cm) and powerful build are combined with incredible speed and endurance. Like Ronaldo, he pays great attention to physical training and recovery after games. As a result, van Dijk, like the Portuguese, has played at the highest level for many years.
Both players are natural born leaders. Cristiano Ronaldo, being the captain of the Portuguese national team, has proven more than once that he is capable of leading the team. His charisma and confidence energize those around him, and his example on the field inspires his teammates. Ronaldo is a leader not only in goals scored, but also in terms of mentality. Van Dijk, although he rarely demonstrates the same emotionality as Ronaldo, has a special calmness and confidence that make him an indispensable leader on the field. At Liverpool, he is called the “command general”, because he coordinates the entire defense and often directs the actions of his teammates. Virgil is a leader whose influence on the game cannot be measured only by statistics. The lives of both players were full of challenges, which they successfully overcame. Cristiano Ronaldo grew up in a poor family in Madeira. His path to success was not easy, but he always believed in himself. Losing his father at a young age only increased his motivation to become the best. Injuries, pressure from fans and the media – all this only strengthened his character. Van Dijk, in turn, has gone through difficulties in his career, including a serious knee injury in 2020. Many believed that after a torn cruciate ligament, he would not be able to return to his previous level. But Virgil has proven that the will to win is stronger than any obstacle. His recovery has become an example for everyone who faces similar challenges.
Ronaldo and Van Dijk are not only team players, but also winners of numerous individual awards. Cristiano Ronaldo has won the Ballon d’Or five times, not to mention the record for most goals in the Champions League and international matches. His achievements have become a benchmark for any striker. Van Dijk also has achievements to boast about. In 2019, he made history by becoming the first defender in more than 13 years to win the UEFA Player of the Year award. His nomination for the Ballon d’Or that same year (where he was second only to Ronaldo and Messi) was a testament to his unique contribution to football. Interestingly, both players are highly respected by their peers. Footballers around the world admire Ronaldo’s work ethic and his desire to excel. Even rivals like Lionel Messi have repeatedly noted his contribution to the development of football. Van Dijk has also earned recognition from his peers for his consistency and tactical intelligence. His teammates often say that playing with Virgil in defense becomes much easier and calmer. He is not only a defender, but also a strategist on the field.