Image Credits: Imago Images
Virgil van Dijk has been playing week in week out for Arne Slot this season despite now being 34 years of age. While the Reds were not able to get any immediate reinforcements for the heart of defense in the January window, Rennes centre-back Jeremy Jacquet will join the club at the end of the season.
In the meantime, the Reds skipper has played every minute of both Liverpool’s Premier League and Champions League campaigns so far this term. It’s a testament to his immense professionalism that he is able to be relied on by Arne Slot so heavily.
The Dutch manager addressed in his pre-Manchester City press conference whether the Jacquet signing was a long-term replacement for his skipper, with Slot suggesting his captain could stay past his current deal that expires in 2027:
“Of course, we are aware of the fact that Virgil will not play for this club for 10 more years but he has a one-and-a-half year contract left so he will be with us for that period of time and maybe even longer if he keeps staying fit as he is now,” Slot said. “As I’ve said before, what a compliment to him at his age to play every three days, not only for his club but also for his country”
However, at a certain age, footballers have to start thinking about their future beyond their playing career.
Speaking in an interview with Gary Neville for Sky Sports, the Reds skipper revealed he wants to do something within youth football but maintained there is still “plenty of time” before he needs to decide:
“I really love the idea of inspiring the next generation. As I said, I’m around the academy a lot because I feel these are the players who will secure Liverpool’s future or keep it at the top. I have my own youth tournament, and I want to make sure it’s the biggest and best under-13 tournament in the world!
“So, something related to that, and that makes me feel like I know what it offers to these youngsters, and I really love that. Well, let’s see, there’s plenty of time…”
The first edition of Virgil’s Legacy Trophy was a success back in September last year, and it seems that’s the direction the Dutchman would like to take after his retirement.
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