Van Dijk names his hero grow up after recovering a gong from UEFA

Virgil van Dijk paid tribute to Liverpool 's teammates – and also named the player he hoped to grow – after being named UEFA' s UEFA player of the year in 2019.

The Reds defender, who signed a £ 75m contract with Southampton in January 2018, helped Liverpool win the Champions League glory in June and became the first Dutchman to win the award.

Van Dijk has also been named UEFA 's defender of the year, while his Liverpool teammate, Alisson Becker, has been named UEFA' s guardian of the year.

The new Barcelona boy Frenkie De Jong, who starred in Ajax in the semifinal of the Champions League last season, was chosen the midfielder of the year, while his new teammate, Lionel Messi, was awarded at the beginning of the year.

however, Van Dijk won first prize, beating the previous winners Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo In the process.

Van Dijk, who is also a favorite of the Ballon d'Or, reflected on his road to the summit after receiving his award. – and also named his hero as a child.

"I was not 18 and went straight to the top. I had to work every step of the way, "he said.

"I've dreamed a lot about Ronaldinho growing up. He enjoyed his game with all his tricks, it was a great feeling to watch him play.

"I have to thank my teammates. Without them, I would not have realized what I accomplished.

"The road was long and that's part of my journey. I am very proud to get this trophy. It is the credit of all those who helped me. "

Ronaldo on Messi rivalry

Meanwhile, Ronaldo extended his friendship to Messi after the two men were fired by Van Dijk.

Shortly before the announcement of the main prize, Ronaldo, who was sitting next to Messi, was questioned about the fact that he was missing his rivalry with Argentina since his move from Real Madrid to Juventus .

"I was curious because we share the scene here for 15 years," he said.

"It's not easy, but we have good relationships. We have not had dinner yet but it is nice.

"We are pushing each other and it's good to be part of the history of football."

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