Description

The Virgil’s Legacy Trophy 2025 is a landmark under‑13 international youth football tournament launching in September 2025 in Tilburg, the Netherlands, at the academy of Willem II—Virgil van Dijk’s first club. From September 13 to 14, this highly curated competition brings together 16 elite clubs from across Europe—including Liverpool, Ajax, Arsenal, Juventus, PSG, Inter Milan, Celtic, PSV, Manchester City, FC Groningen, and Feyenoord—to compete in a setting inspired by Van Dijk’s commitment to youth development and excellence. Designed exclusively for boys born after January 1, 2013, all matches are played 11‑a‑side at top-tier facilities, including the prestigious Koning Willem II Stadium for finals. The format begins with a group stage, followed by knockout rounds, ensuring every team plays multiple high-quality fixtures in a professional environment. More than just a tournament, the Legacy Trophy is a passion project by Van Dijk and his former club, offering young footballers exposure to elite competition, international camaraderie, and the best standards in youth football—pitch quality, officiating, and support services. The event was orchestrated in collaboration with Orange Veins and other partners, underscoring its ambition to deliver not only memorable matches but also lifelong inspiration. This competition is Virgil van Dijk’s way of giving back—creating a platform where future stars can compete at the highest level on a stage he once dreamt of. The inaugural Legacy Trophy promises to be a defining moment in youth football, celebrating passion, promise, and the legacy of one of the game’s greatest defenders.