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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
Sport
Charlotte Coates

Ronaldinho sends Virgil van Dijk message before Liverpool v Real Madrid Champions League final

Brazilian legend Ronaldinho believes Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk is the best defender in the world.

Van Dijk has played a huge role in the successes that Liverpool have enjoyed since his arrival from Southampton in January 2018 and this weekend will attempt to become a two-time Champions League winner. The Reds take on Real Madrid in Paris in the showpiece.

The captain of Holland will have his work cut out on Saturday night as he'll be coming up against Madrid star Karim Benzema, who has almost single-handedly dragged his side to the final.

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And speaking ahead of the final, former Barcelona and AC Milan star Ronaldinho said: "I love him. In my opinion, he is the best defender in world football at this moment. I have lots of love and respect for him, and he is an amazing player."

Since returning from an ACL injury, Van Dijk has been instrumental to Liverpool finishing one point behind Manchester City in the Premier League and winning the two domestic cups on offer in England.

The Dutchman is now looking to finish the season with getting his hands on Big Ears once again as he gears up for his third Champions League final in just five years.

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