Virgil van Dijk's Liverpool future is in no doubt as he leads the Reds into a new era under Andoni Iraola - but his international status is in question after the World Cup
Liverpool defender and captain Virgil van Dijk
Liverpool defender and captain Virgil van Dijk
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Virgil van Dijk admits he could quit international football if new Netherlands boss Xavi doesn't respect him enough.
Liverpool star Van Dijk was left devastated following the Netherlands exit from the World Cup on penalties to Morocco in the last 32. The defeat resulted in Ronald Koeman resigning as manager.
Xavi has replaced Koeman and will look to build a team capable of winning the 2028 Euros, which will be co-hosted by England, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland.
But it remains to be seen if Van Dijk is willing to continue as Netherlands skipper. The 35-year-old, who has won 96 caps, insists he wants to feel valued if he is to continue representing his country.
And Van Dijk admits he will make a decision following talks with Xavi during the next international break.
When asked if he could keep playing for the Netherlands, the defender said: "It's a good question. I will have that meeting with the new manager first. Let's see.
"It's a little bit down to that conversation. Everyone wants to feel appreciated, loved and important. I feel like I'm still very much valuable and important for the team.
Virgil van Dijk and the Netherlands team were knocked out of the World Cup by Morocco
Virgil van Dijk and the Netherlands team were knocked out of the World Cup by Morocco(Image: Koen Van Weel/ANP)
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"If the manager sees it that way then we're going to have another good two years. If not, then we will see. I will have the meeting with him and then we'll go from there.
"With anything you do, you want to feel respected, loved and appreciated for your work and the quality that you bring. Let's see if that's still the case - and then we'll go from there."
Van Dijk made his international debut in 2015 and has captained the Netherlands 72 times, surpassing the previous Dutch record of 71 set by Frank de Boer.