Virgil van Dijk will be one of the heavy favorites at the Golden Ball ceremony in Paris, following a stellar 2019 for both Liverpool FC and the Netherlands national team, which was highlighted by their Champions League title. In anticipation of learning who will win—him, Leo Messi, or colleague Momo Salah—Nike has unveiled a brand-new installment of the “Birthplace of Dreams” series, which has the Dutch number 4 as its main character.

Similar to previous “Birthplace of Dreams” programs showcasing notable sportsmen such as Rafael Nadal, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Caster Semenya, VVD explores its early years via the pitches and locations of its career start.

The defender begins his self-talk by discussing his birthplace of Breda, where he first gained notoriety, and closes the documentary at the Tilburg Academy. Van Dijk discusses his challenging upbringing and his ambition to play in the Premier League in the interview. The football player describes how he was on the verge of being let go from the academy because he wasn’t thought to be capable. The Dutch national captain then, in true “Just Do It” fashion, describes how he had to put in a lot of work at Groningen, Southampton, and finally Liverpool to overcome the criticism regarding the £75 million that the Reds paid for him in 2018.

Virgil van Dijk recalls the two Champions League finals as he strolls around an incredibly sunny Liverpool. He recalls the disappointment of the 2018 loss and the victory against Tottenham in 2019.

VIRGIL VAN DIJK LAUNCHES THE LIVERPOOL FC X LEBRON AIR MAX 1

The formal Friday launch of the sneakers was announced on Liverpool’s club website, where the team said:

“The shoe is a modern interpretation of one of Nike’s most well-known styles, the Nike Air Max 1. It debuts to begin Nike’s annual celebration of Nike Air, Air Max Month.

The Liverpool FC x LeBron trainer is green and red with a leather and textile finish for a robust, layered look and Max Air cushioning. It was inspired by the third kit color scheme for this season.The LFC crest and LeBron’s crown are inside the shoe as further embellishment, and the words “YNWA” and “SFG” (Strive for Greatness) are engraved on the rear.

The partnership between Liverpool FC and LeBron represents the long-standing bond between these two worldwide icons, honoring their common ideals and distinguished pasts.”

These are priced at £164.95 on Nike and the official club website. Sneakerheads, football lovers, and basketball fans will all be very fond of these!