Virgil van Dijk has described his ACL injury recovery in 2020 as “one of the best times” of his life.
The Liverpool defender suffered the serious injury after a reckless challenge by Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, who escaped punishment.
Van Dijk spent nearly a year sidelined, missing key matches for both club and country.
Despite the severity of the injury, he now reflects on that period with unexpected gratitude. He explained that the recovery gave him rare and valuable time with his family.
He spent seven weeks in Dubai during his rehab, away from Liverpool’s training ground, which allowed him to reconnect with his loved ones. “Seven weeks with them. I never get to do that,” he said via GQ.
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Virgil van Dijk recalls the challenges faced
Van Dijk admitted the mental challenges were tougher than the physical ones. He questioned whether he would return to his former level, but remained determined. His successful comeback helped Liverpool win two Premier League titles.
However, critics have continued to reference his injury, especially during a dip in form in the 2022/23 season. “Every mistake, people refer to the injury,” he noted. Van Dijk spoke about the delicate nature of confidence, recalling Jurgen Klopp’s words: “Confidence is like a flower. It can be easily crushed.”
As captain, he now leads not only by example but by presence. “I have to communicate leadership just by someone looking at me,” he said.
For VVD, that difficult period became a blessing in disguise. Footballers often miss out on family time due to their demanding schedules.
The injury gave him space to reflect, recover, and grow closer to his loved ones.
While no player wants a serious knee injury, Van Dijk believes that moment offered something uniquely valuable.
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