Ballon d'Or 2019: Four favourites to finish in the top three this year

#2 Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)

Virgil van Dijk has had the best possible debut season with Liverpool.

Following his breakthrough debut season with Liverpool, Virgil van Dijk has emerged as the strongest competitor for the Ballon d'Or alongside Lionel Messi.

The former Southampton man has proven himself to arguably be the best centre-back in the game, having established a commanding presence at the heart of the best defence in the Premier League.

The Dutchman, together with the likes of Allison Becker and Andy Robertson, has helped Liverpool concede only 22 goals, which is the best record in the English top flight.

Van Dijk's stature has been of great help to his aerial ability, but it is his composure that has earned him individual prizes like the PFA Player of the Year award.

If Liverpool go on to win the Champions League title on Saturday, the 27-year-old could move from being a podium favourite to a Ballon d'Or winner.