Frank Christian
Virgil van Dijk, the captain of Liverpool, is eager to lead the Dutch national team in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The seasoned defender is focused on achieving this goal as European teams begin their qualification process in March 2025.
Following the Netherlands’ defeat to England in the Euro 2024 semifinals, the 33-year-old expressed thoughts of possibly retiring from international football.
Despite this, he remains committed to Ronald Koeman’s Dutch team, recently earning his 75th cap in a victorious 5-2 UEFA Nations League match against Bosnia & Herzegovina.
After the game, Van Dijk shared encouraging words and hinted at his intention to extend his contract with Liverpool.
“I’m a warrior and a fighter, and I won’t give up on La Oranje. You have to evaluate your value, and I believe I’m still relevant both on and off the field,” he remarked.
“As the Liverpool captain, which remains a key aspect, I feel great physically. I aspire to participate in another World Cup, as I know I am still up to the challenge.”
His mention of the Liverpool captaincy emphasizes its importance in his quest for World Cup participation.
Van Dijk is currently in the last year of his contract at Liverpool, alongside teammates Trent Alexander-Arnold and Mohamed Salah, with discussions about their future planned before 2024 concludes.
