Van Dijk confirms Dutch future after Xavi talks: “A huge decision” | OneFootball

Virgil van Dijk will continue representing the Netherlands. The Dutch captain admitted he had doubts about his future after Ronald Koeman’s departure, but a conversation with the new head coach, Xavi Hernández, ultimately proved decisive in embracing a new chapter with enthusiasm.

The Liverpool defender has earned 96 international caps, and last summer he had cast doubt over his future with the national team following Koeman’s exit.

The Dutch coach stepped down after the Netherlands were eliminated by Morocco at the World Cup, and the federation chose Xavi as his replacement.

The new manager got in touch with Van Dijk, and the two had a conversation which, as the player himself explained, gave him the confidence he needed to carry on.

“It was a major decision”

Van Dijk admitted it was not an easy decision, but said his feelings after speaking with Xavi were positive from the very beginning.

“Obviously, it was a major decision. I needed to feel trust, as well as that combination of respect, joy, and everything I was looking for,” he explained.

The centre-back added that his conversation with the new head coach did not need to last long to convince him.

“That was there from the very first second, so the conversation didn’t need to go on for too long. But it was very positive, so I’m really looking forward to rejoining the team for these four important matches,” he said.

With his future now confirmed, Van Dijk looks set to continue serving as one of the main leaders in the Dutch dressing room.

“Let’s make the next two years, at the very least, a fantastic period,” he concluded.

Van Dijk arrives in high spirits from Liverpool

The defender joined up with the national team after helping Liverpool head into the international break with a 1-0 win over Bournemouth.

The result allowed the Reds to record three consecutive Premier League clean sheets, something they had not managed since Arne Slot’s first three matches in charge during the 2024–25 season.

Van Dijk stressed that the credit for that defensive solidity belongs to the whole team.

“Keeping a clean sheet is always a good sign. The whole team plays a key role in that,” he explained.

And he added:

“The attacking players and the midfielders do a great job, and that gives you an excellent foundation to build on.”

Patience with young Jérémy Jacquet

Van Dijk also spoke about his new defensive partnership with Jérémy Jacquet, Liverpool’s signing during last summer’s transfer window.

The Dutchman spoke positively about the young centre-back’s start, although he urged calm given that the season has only just begun.

“He’s had an excellent start, but we’re only in September. I want him to keep working and learning. I’m sure he will,” he commented.

For Van Dijk, the Frenchman’s development will be gradual and will depend on his ability to keep working and learn from every match.

“He has a big future ahead of him, but it’s up to him to keep working hard and stay calm,” concluded the Liverpool captain.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.