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#3 Mats Hummels
Mats Hummels was one of Jurgen Klopp's most frequently used players during his time at Borussia Dortmund. The German centre-back was a key aspect of the side that won back-to-back league titles in the 2010-11 and 2011-12 Bundesliga seasons.
Under Jurgen Klopp, Hummels made a reputation for himself as one of the best centre-backs in Europe with clean tackles and impressive ball-playing ability. He played in 242 games for Klopp and won two league titles, two Super Cups, and one DFB Pokal Cup with the German at the helm.
Hummels was, in a way, what Jurgen Klopp was looking for before the arrival of Van Dijk at Liverpool. His defensive consistency and leadership qualities made him an invaluable asset to the German side.
Hummels has moved back-and-forth between Bayern Munich and Dortmund over the years and is one of the most experienced defenders in the world.
#2 Trent Alexander-Arnold
A product of Liverpool’s youth academy, Trent Alexander-Arnold has established himself as one of the best right-backs in the game right now. At just 23, he has already amassed a lot of big-game experience and has honed his skills expertly.
Alexander-Arnold is Liverpool’s assist king with his pinpoint crosses being put on a plate for his front men, who promptly put the ball in the back of the net. Jurgen Klopp has made the most out of his fullbacks, striking an effective balance between attack and defense.
The homegrown talent already has 52 assists and 11 goals under Jurgen Klopp, which includes some glorious free-kicks. The young Englishman has four trophies already, including a Champions League and the Premier League title.
Alexander-Arnold is third on the list for most assists this season in the Premier League and will get many more in games to come. He certainly has the potential to become an all-time great for Liverpool and perhaps will take the captain’s armband in the future.
#1 Virgil van Dijk
Virgil van Dijk, who has been one of the best defenders in the world in recent times, undoubtedly claims the top spot on this list. He has completely transformed Jurgen Klopp’s backline, and Liverpool have been rock-solid defensively more often than not when the Dutchman is on the pitch.
Last season, Van Dijk was absent for a long duration due to an injury he picked up against Everton, which was a massive blow to Liverpool in their campaign. The 30-year-old is back this season and looks as solid as ever.
Under Jurgen Klopp, Van Dijk has won the Premier League, Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup. The defender was also the PFA's Player of the Year award winner in 2018-19.
Van Dijk is blessed with pace, strength and dominance in the air, and the effortless manner in which he wins the ball back make Jurgen Klopp’s job a lot easier. The 2019 UEFA Player of the Year has effectively led the backline for Liverpool and has also contributed upfront with the odd goal.
