Dutch defender Virgil van Dijk has made it clear that he intends to remain with the Netherlands national team until at least the 2026 World Cup, as confirmed by manager Ronald Koeman. Koeman, who recently guided the Dutch to the semi-finals of Euro 2024, flew to Liverpool to have a personal conversation with Van Dijk about his future.
“I thought it was crucial to speak with him face to face, to gauge his commitment and determination to continue playing at the highest level for another two years. He assured me that he sees a future for himself in the team and is ready to give his all. All doubts have been dispelled, and he is fully focused on moving forward,” Koeman stated.
While Van Dijk expressed disappointment in his performance at the Euro 2024 tournament, Koeman lauded his leadership qualities as captain. However, Koeman acknowledged that perhaps Van Dijk had been too selfless, focusing more on supporting his teammates than on his own game.
In contrast, Steven Bergwijn’s future with the Netherlands team seems uncertain after his transfer to Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia. Koeman revealed that Bergwijn had not been considered for selection due to a subpar start to the season at Ajax and his decision to move to a non-European league.
“The door is essentially closed for him. He is aware of my stance on this matter. At 26, the primary focus should be on sporting ambitions rather than financial gains. These are decisions that players have to make,” Koeman remarked. Personal choices aside, Koeman expressed his own preference for staying in a competitive European league, citing his own opportunity to join Barcelona.
Additionally, Koeman addressed the situation of Georginio Wijnaldum, who at 33 years old, represented the Netherlands at Euro 2024 despite playing for Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia. Koeman explained that Wijnaldum’s move was necessitated by difficulties at Paris Saint-Germain and his age, emphasizing the circumstances that led to his decision.
As the Dutch national team prepares for a Nations League clash with Bosnia and Herzegovina, Koeman seems to have a clear vision for the team’s future, with Van Dijk’s commitment contrasting against the uncertainty surrounding Bergwijn’s international career.
