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Liverpool captain Van Dijk unsure over Netherlands future ahead of Xavi meeting

ยทBy Paul Lindisfarne
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Liverpool captain Van Dijk unsure over Netherlands future ahead of Xavi meeting

Liverpool/X.com

Virgil van Dijk says he has not yet decided whether he will keep playing at Euro 2028, and will wait for a meeting with new Netherlands boss Xavi first.

Van Dijk, 35, has been an indispensable figure for both Liverpool and the Dutch national team for many years, but significant change is under way on both fronts, with Andoni Iraola now the new head coach at Anfield and Xavi recently appointed as Netherlands manager.

The defender has yet to decide whether he will remain part of the national set-up through to the 2028 European Championship, and wants clarity on his role before making a final decision on his future.

"It's a good question. I'll have that meeting with the new manager first. We'll see," Van Dijk told The Athletic.

Van Dijk has signed a contract with the Dutch federation that runs through to the 2030 World Cup.

"It's partly down to that conversation. Everyone wants to feel appreciated, liked and important," Van Dijk said. "I feel I'm still very valuable and important to the team. If the manager sees it the same way, we'll have two good years ahead of us. If not, we'll see."

The centre-back said he feels no pressure, because of his age, to prioritise his club career over international football, unlike some of his contemporaries in the game.

"Not at all. Some players do that, but not me. Whatever you do, you want to feel respected, loved and appreciated for your work and the quality you bring. We'll see if that's still the case, and then we'll take it from there."

Xavi is set to name his first Netherlands squad this week, with the Dutch opening their Nations League campaign against Germany during the upcoming international break.

Van Dijk's contract with Liverpool expires next summer, and reports this week suggested negotiations over a new deal are not expected to begin until April, adding further uncertainty to his situation at both club and international level.