Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has released a heartfelt message to Netherlands supporters following his nation's shock early World Cup exit at the hands of Morocco. Ronald Koeman's side crashed out on penalties in Mexico, with Justin Kluivert, Quinten Timber and Crysencio Summerville all failing to convert from the spot in the last 32.
Van Dijk's Statement
"As captain, all I ever wanted was to make this country proud," Van Dijk said on Instagram on Monday. "To see our World Cup end so early is heartbreaking because I know how much this team gave every single day. A lot has been said and that is for another day. Now is about accepting that we failed, and we take full responsibility for that." He added: "I'd like to thank our traveling fans and everyone back home who believed in us and stood by us until the end. We saw you, and we felt your support every step of the way."
Coaching Changes
Head coach Koeman stepped down several days ago, with ex-Liverpool boss Arne Slot believed to be amongst the frontrunners to succeed him. Should Slot take the reins with the national side, he would be reunited with Ryan Gravenberch and Cody Gakpo, both of whom he worked alongside at Anfield. Intriguingly, Slot's potential first fixture in charge could pit him against Jurgen Klopp, who is widely expected to take over the Germany job from Julian Nagelsmann. The Netherlands are set to face Die Mannschaft in the UEFA Nations League in September.
Klopp's Comments
"The timing even now is not perfect because I am currently under contract with Red Bull, but it is still better than it has ever been," Klopp said on Magenta TV. "When I stopped at Liverpool, I lacked the energy for even one more year with the club, and I'm more than recharged now."
Van Dijk's Return
Van Dijk will arrive back at Liverpool ahead of schedule for pre-season, where he will meet new head coach Andoni Iraola for the first time since he succeeded Slot at the conclusion of last season.
