In case you didn’t know…
The Liverpool defender was recently named the PFA Player of the Year and was also included in the PFA Team of the Year. Van Dijk has been superb for the Reds this season and has played a huge role in Liverpool’s title challenge. However, when it came to facing Lionel Messi, the centre-back clearly struggled to keep the Argentine quiet.
Messi struck twice in the last 15 minutes of the match, helping La Liga Champions to a 3-0. Liverpool now have a mountain to climb if they are to turn the tie around at Anfield next week.
Given his capabilities and heroics this season, Van Dijk surely could have done betterat the Camp Nou. However, in this crucial match, he was clearly not at his best.
The heart of the matter
Former Arsenal manager Wenger was extremely critical of Van Dijk.
Besides Wenger, former Manchester United defender Ferdinand was also left unimpressed with Van Dijk’s performance.
As much as the former Southampton defender has done well all season, this poor outing will surely remain at the back of his mind for a long period of time.
What’s next?
Liverpool will focus their attention back to the Premier League as they are just one point behind leaders Manchester City. They will face Newcastle United at the weekend before hosting Barcelona next week.
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