Stat show the aerial domination that Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has displayed throughout the current season

Football stat-based site Whoscored provided data to show the dominant force Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has been this season. Van Dijk has played a pivotal role in the Reds’ successful first half of the season, competing for every trophy.

Liverpool are currently at the top of the Premier League table but the title chase is too close for comfort. Furthermore, they have successfully progressed in every cup competition, reaching the final of the Carabao Cup as well.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp appointed Van Dijk as new Liverpool captain during the summer to lead his squad. The Dutch captain faced severe criticism last season due to poor performances that coincided with the club’s struggle.

Many fans and pundits argued that the 32-year-old has lost his peak after returning from a career-changing ACL injury. In the 2020-21 season, Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford made an intentionally reckless tackle causing the injury. Van Dijk missed the whole season after he underwent surgery, consequently taking time to adjust to rediscover his form.

Nevertheless, this season the Dutchman has performed as well as he did when he ended as the Ballon d’Or runner-up. Whoscored (h/t X) reported that Van Dijk (81.7%) is the only player in the top five leagues in Europe, to have an aerial duel win rate higher than 80% (100+ contested) this season.

The impressive stat outlines the massive contribution Van Dijk has made in solidifying the defensive line for the Reds. Liverpool recently lost 3-1 to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium in the Premier League showdown between two title challengers.

Virgil van Dijk (81.7%) is the only player in Europe's top five leagues this season with an aerial duel win rate higher than 80% (100+ contested) pic.twitter.com/4V7qy6DHjm

— WhoScored.com (@WhoScored) February 7, 2024

Van Dijk made a howler in the second half that helped Arsenal to take the lead, eventually sealing their victory. Despite the disappointment, the vast majority of the Liverpool fanbase has backed their captain to come back strongly.

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The high level of consistency that Van Dijk displays comes with scrutiny over every mistake he makes. Nevertheless, Kopite remain grateful that the Dutchman represent their club with pride and honour while others take him as a measuring stick for any upcoming defender.