Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk clarifies that the media took his previous statement about the future “out of context.”
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk clarified the statements that doubted his commitment due to wrong interpretation from the media. The media questioned Van Dijk’s commitment after providing a vague response to the contract situation amid Jurgen Klopp’s departure announcement.
Klopp appointed Van Dijk as the new Liverpool captain before the start of the current season. The 32-year-old received criticism after struggling with performances last season which coincided with the team’s overall struggle.
Many naysayers argued that the Dutch captain can never reach his best since returning from the ACL injury. He suffered the injury during the 2020-21 season against Everton when opposition goalkeeper Jordan Pickford made a horrible challenge.
However, Van Dijk proved his naysayers wrong this season by playing a pivotal role, leading the Reds to a successful start. He has displayed defensive formidability that is at par, if not better than the season he earned the Ballon d’Or runner-up spot.
Speaking on the Men in Blazers podcast, Van Dijk clarified his previous comments by assuring the fans about his loyalty. He said:
“It’s been taken out of context. To be 100 per cent clear, I am fully committed to the club. I love the club. I love the fans. [That comment] has fully been taken out of context. It’s not about me. It’s not about ‘I’, it’s about ‘us’. Nothing has changed. Five days ago we weren’t even speaking about my contract so it’s a bit silly. My full focus is on making sure this year is a very special year.”
The 32-year-old’s current contract expires on June 30, 2025 (h/t transfermarkt), leaving only 18 months for negotiation. Van Dijk is one of the highest earners but his position in the squad is indispensable despite his age.
Van Dijk’s current season performances show that the Dutchman has many years left at the top flight. He has two goals and two assists from 24 appearances in all competitions so far this season. Meanwhile, the 32-year-old has helped Liverpool create a mean defence, conceding the least number of goals in the Premier League.
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Liverpool cannot afford to lose so many important figures at once as Klopp and many of his staff members depart. The new contract for Van Dijk would show that the club is serious about their ambition post-Klopp’s era. Furthermore, being one of the leaders and key performers for Liverpool, Van Dijk’s presence would only help the new manager.
