The special meaning behind Virgil van Dijk’s trademark ‘chin wave’ celebration for Liverpool

A heartfelt video appears to clarify Virgil van Dijk’s signature celebratory behaviour.

Last Saturday, Liverpool defeated Chelsea 1-0 at Wembley Stadium, led by Van Dijk, to win the Carabao Cup.

After the match went into extra time, he headed home the game-winning goal in the 118th minute.

Van Dijk responded to Kostas Tsimikas’ corner kick with a classic celebration.

With his ‘chin wave’ celebration, the Liverpool skipper seemed to be aiming it at someone in the audience.

What purpose does the celebration serve?

As per a TikTok video, it’s an homage to his small daughter, Nila.

Nila may be seen in a video performing Van Dijk’s signature “chin wave” celebration, which the standout defender does after every goal.

It looked like Van Dijk was celebrating her in a healthy way, and his daughter would have been at Wembley Stadium.

When asked how much the Carabao Cup victory meant for Liverpool, the 32-year-old responded, “So much.” Every young boy on the pitch during extra time. I’m so pleased of the crew; it’s amazing.

Both teams played a fierce game; we had opportunities and they had chances. Incredible. Let’s enjoy our first trophy together as Liverpool captain; it’s everything for the supporters.”

He went on to say of his game-winning goal, “It’s emotion, it’s everything, I’m so proud of the boys.” The little boys who contributed to what we accomplished today are amazing, and there’s much more to come.”

Van Dijk commented, “You should always savour the good moments, and this is definitely one of them,” about savouring the occasion with Jurgen Klopp.

“Listen, we never take anything for granted. As you can see, even though we lost today, we still performed a good job despite all of the issues we had prior to the game. I’m incredibly proud of the boys and thrilled to be a member of this group.”