When the final whistle blows and the stadium lights dim, footballers often swap fierce competition for camaraderie.
Few examples highlight this better than the friendship between Kevin De Bruyne and Virgil van Dijk. Despite representing rival clubs—Manchester City and Liverpool respectively—the two stars have forged a close bond, defying the traditional boundaries of football rivalry.
De Bruyne and Van Dijk’s friendship isn’t just a passing acquaintance. The duo has been spotted vacationing together for three consecutive summers, with Ibiza becoming their go-to destination. Their off-season retreats, often accompanied by their families, have raised eyebrows among fans accustomed to seeing the pair in heated Premier League battles. But beyond the pitch, these football icons share a world only a few can truly understand—a world where the pressures of fame, competition, and the relentless scrutiny of the media unite rather than divide.
For the average fan, the idea of holidaying with a work rival might seem strange. But in the rarefied world of elite football, only fellow players can fully grasp the unique challenges of the profession. From negotiating endorsement deals to the grind of daily training, De Bruyne and Van Dijk find common ground in their shared experiences. And it doesn’t hurt that both players speak Dutch and have children who attend the same school, further cementing their off-field connection.
One of the more public glimpses into their friendship came during a summer trip to Ibiza in 2023. A short video posted by De Bruyne’s wife, Michèle, captured the duo enjoying a laid-back evening at a beach bar. In the clip, Van Dijk is seated, while De Bruyne stands nearby, both vibing to the music—an image far removed from the intense, high-stakes atmosphere of a Premier League match.
Advertisement
We’re on Social Media
Follow us on X
See more football highlights
Their vacations often include taking in performances by Scottish DJ Calvin Harris, a mutual favorite. In fact, the pair has become something of regulars at Harris’s shows during their Ibiza getaways. While the days of wild, beer-fueled escapades may be behind them, De Bruyne and Van Dijk’s version of relaxation seems to revolve around good music, family time, and the occasional beachside gathering.
The friendship isn’t limited to the off-season. After a thrilling 2-2 draw between Manchester City and Liverpool in April 2022, the two were seen chatting amicably on the pitch. De Bruyne later explained, “I know Virgil well. Our children play together, and we see each other a lot. It was just a friendly conversation.” It’s a sentiment echoed by Van Dijk, who has openly expressed admiration for De Bruyne’s talents.
When asked by Gary Neville on The Overlap which player he’d most like to see at Liverpool, Van Dijk didn’t hesitate: “Kevin De Bruyne. He’s unbelievable. If he had played for Liverpool, we would have gone even further. He’s outstanding—great on the ball, excellent at pressing, scoring, creating. He’s got everything a modern midfielder needs.”
Such praise from a player of Van Dijk’s caliber speaks volumes about the mutual respect between the two. While their on-field rivalry may be fierce, it’s clear that off the pitch, they share a deep appreciation for each other’s skills and professionalism.
The friendship between De Bruyne and Van Dijk is a reminder that football, despite its rivalries and tribalism, is ultimately a sport built on respect. In an era where fans often demand unwavering loyalty to the badge, these two have shown that personal connections can transcend club allegiances.
Some fans may bristle at the sight of their heroes mingling with rivals, but De Bruyne and Van Dijk offer a refreshing perspective on the game. Their friendship doesn’t diminish their competitive edge; if anything, it highlights the maturity and professionalism that have made them two of the best in their respective positions.
As they continue to compete at the highest level, De Bruyne and Van Dijk’s relationship stands as a testament to the fact that even in the cutthroat world of professional football, friendships can thrive. Whether it’s on the sun-soaked beaches of Ibiza or in the heat of a Premier League showdown, these two stars have found a balance between rivalry and respect—a balance that many could learn from.
And who knows? Perhaps one day, as their careers wind down, they might indeed ride off into the sunset together—maybe to Saudi Arabia, as some speculate—with Calvin Harris providing the soundtrack to their next chapter. But until then, fans can look forward to more thrilling battles between these two friends-turned-rivals, each pushing the other to new heights on the pitch.