Ronald Koeman says he paid a visit to Virgil van Dijk in the wake of the Netherlands’ heartbreaking semi-final defeat to England in the EUROs.
After his nation’s exit from the competition, van Dijk hinted that he would be considering his future with the national team.
Koeman says the two of them spoke and now, van Dijk is leaning towards staying involved until after the 2026 World Cup.
Koeman shares details of chat with Virgil
Ronald Koeman (L) and Virgil van Dijk (R). Credit: Imago Images
“I noticed how Virgil was feeling, so I thought it was very important to visit him,” Koeman told a press conference ahead of Holland’s Nations League matches.
“But he indicated that he wants to give it another two years, towards the World Cup. I also have that feeling about him, even though he did not reach his level at the last European Championship.
“He has done that (captaincy) very well and we also discussed how he can manage that better in combination with his own game. It is very positive that he stands for the group like this, but you have to reach your own level first.
“That’s the most important thing. He felt that he was too concerned with others, he said. But it is not without reason that he was chosen for the best Premier League team.”
Speaking on his Liverpool contract situation last weekend, Van Dijk said: “For now, there has been no changes in my situation but I’m very calm about it. There is no reason for me to start thinking something else because I have the whole season to play for still.”
No sign of EUROs hangover for van Dijk
Virgil van Dijk. Credit: Imago Images
So far, it doesn’t seem as though there are any lasting effects on van Dijk from the disappointing end to his summer adventure with Holland.
Liverpool need their skipper at his best and it appears he is.
The Dutch star has been fantastic this season so far and was particularly imperious in the 3-0 win over Manchester United at the weekend.
