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#2 His defensive record matches the attacking exploits of Messi and Ronaldo
This may sound a bit controversial, but van Dijk actually bested every player in the cause of the year, including Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. The Barcelona star enjoyed a wonderful season, scoring 51 goals in 50 appearances in all competitions, while Ronaldo managed 28 goals and 10 assists in all competitions.
However, both still fall short of the kind of flawless year van Dijk has had. As a defender, the Netherlands captain cannot be judged on goals, but by how well he marshalled Liverpool’s back-line.
The former Southampton star made 50 appearances in all competitions, scoring or assisting a combined 10 goals, and also helped Liverpool keep 23 clean sheets. He reads the game well, starts attacks from the back and also commands the entire Liverpool back-line when it comes to positioning. He was also dribbled past only once in the entire season, by Leroy Sane.
No defender has won the Best FIFA Men’s Player since Fabio Cannavaro in 2006, but Van Dijk has done enough this year to deserve the award.
