Liverpool star rejected Man City transfer because of 'special' Liverpool boss

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Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk has previously explained the reason for choosing the Reds over Manchester City and Chelsea when he decided to leave Southampton in 2018

Virgil van Dijk signed for Liverpool to work under Jurgen Klopp(Image: Getty Images)

Virgil van Dijk has previously revealed that the prospect of working under Jurgen Klopp was the deciding factor in turning down the opportunity to join Manchester City.

During his time at Southampton, the Dutchman was among the most sought-after defenders in world soccer, with City, Liverpool and Chelsea all competing for his signature. It was the Reds who ultimately won the race in January 2018.

In the eight years since arriving at Anfield, the 34-year-old has gone on to claim eight major honors, including two Premier League titles and the Champions League. He has also accumulated numerous individual accolades — though it is a story that could have unfolded very differently, given Van Dijk's admission that he had the option of linking up with Pep Guardiola at the Etihad Stadium.

Van Dijk said: "I had the chance to go to Chelsea and Man City. When you compare the clubs, you look at the history, the town, the current squad, their plans for the near future.

"But the most important thing you look at is the manager – and Jurgen Klopp is an important reason why I chose for Liverpool.

"Klopp has something special. Is it his energy? Is it his overall image?

Van Dijk turned down the chance to join Pep Guardiola's squad(Image: Getty Images)

"I sometimes sit and think about what he does and what he has more than others. I think it is his man-management.

"These days, that is more important than anything in football."

Van Dijk spoke warmly of Klopp's ability to motivate and his talent for man-management, adding: "Klopp gives you this great feeling.

"He is genuinely happy when you walk into the club in the morning. It may sound daft, but that really inspires you as a player.

"He gives every player a hug after the game. It might be a really small detail, yet it feels good for every player. And the next day, he can hammer you in front of the squad in training.

"But then you accept that too. Because you know it is not personal. That way he can demand a lot from us."

Liverpool and City have been involved in a host of memorable encounters over the past decade, with the latest chapter of their rivalry set to unfold on Saturday in the FA Cup quarterfinals in Manchester.

The Reds will come face-to-face with a familiar figure in former Liverpool assistant coach Pep Lijnders, who will take charge of City due to Guardiola's two-match touchline ban.