Virgil van Dijk says he hates playing against 23-year-old Man City player

Redaction Simon Brett with James Thompson
Published on 2024-04-06 09:00:00

Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk has named Manchester City player Erling Haaland as one of the toughest opponents he has faced in his career. Van Dijk praised Haaland’s strength, directness, and goal-scoring ability, highlighting the challenge of playing against the young striker. Haaland, who has scored 81 goals in just 88 appearances for City, is known for his pace and physicality, making him a formidable opponent for defenders like van Dijk.

Van Dijk’s comments on Haaland came during an episode of The Rest Is Football, where he shared his thoughts on the toughest players he has faced in the Premier League. The Liverpool defender’s acknowledgment of Haaland’s abilities as a top goalscorer and his impressive speed further highlights the challenge that the City star poses for defenders. Haaland’s goal-scoring record and high number of shots on target in the Premier League this season further solidify his reputation as a difficult opponent.

Given Haaland’s success in front of goal and his physical attributes, it is not surprising that van Dijk and other top-flight defenders find him challenging to play against. The Norwegian striker’s ability to punish defenders with his direct style of play and clinical finishing makes him a standout player in the Premier League. Van Dijk’s recognition of Haaland as one of his toughest opponents underscores the threat that the City star poses on the field.

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