Liverpool star issues brutal self-criticism amid Netherlands blunder

Netherlands and Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has delivered a scathing self-assessment highlighting his leadership qualities and the need to improve

Virgil van Dijk has delivered a scathing self-assessment after his performance for the Netherlands, highlighting his responsibility to Liverpool and his country. The Netherlands lost 3-2 to Austria as Van Dijk kept Marcel Sabitzer onside for the winning goal that decided the match.

The Netherlands barely qualified for the round of 16 after finishing third in their Euro 2024 group after recording a win. Dutch manager Ronald Koeman has also come under criticism as the team has many top players in good form.

Koeman has chosen not to bring in some players like Mats Wieffer, who have had successful seasons with their respective clubs. The Dutch team is facing balance issues in its starting XI due to managerial preferences.

The captain acknowledges his role in the poor performance and the players should do the same, taking responsibility for their mistakes. Van Dijk must rally his team, putting past mistakes behind them as they face Romania in the last 16.

Speaking to the press (via BBC), Van Dijk highlighted his poor performance and stressed the need to improve. He said:

“I’m not stupid. I also know that I can do better and that it should be better, and that’s what I’m working on.”

Beloved former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp named Van Dijk as the club’s new captain following the departure of Jordan Henderson last season. The 32-year-old has faced criticism during the 2022-23 season due to poor performances which have coincided with Liverpool’s struggles.