Virgil van Dijk could be in the final year of his Liverpool career with his contract set to expire at the end of the current season, and the Reds' captain already knows what to expect
Virgil van Dijk speaking during an interview with Sky Sports
Virgil van Dijk has opened up on his future at Liverpool(Image: Sky Sports)
Virgil van Dijk has hinted at an exit from Liverpool, having admitted he will be “emotional” when the day comes for him to leave Anfield.
Van Dijk could already be in his final year with the Reds, with the Dutchman’s contract set to expire at the end of the current season. He has dismissed questions over his future recently, with no indication yet of whether talks could be on the way over a new deal.
The 35-year-old remains at the heart of Liverpool’s defense following the change in management during the summer, with Andoni Iraola having taken over from Arne Slot.
The wheels do look to be in motion as Liverpool plans for Van Dijk’s successors. 21-year-old Jeremy Jacquet has already established himself alongside the Reds’ captain, while 19-year-old Giovanni Leoni is on his way back from injury, and 18-year-old Ifeanyi Ndukwe is currently on loan in Spain after impressing during pre-season.
It’s no surprise, then, that Van Dijk is starting to think about his eventual exit from the club, and he already knows what to expect.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Van Dijk spoke about the emotions of lifting the Premier League title in 2025, which caused the interviewer, Patrick Davison, to admit he didn’t see him as an emotional character.
Virgil van Dijk.
Virgil van Dijk is in the final year of his contract at Liverpool(Image: David Horton - CameraSport via Getty Images)
Van Dijk laughed and responded: “You’re going to see it though in the future eventually when I have to walk out of the club, and it will be a very emotional day. It’s been an incredible journey.”
The Liverpool captain has plenty of work to do before he can think about his exit, whether that comes at the end of the season or further into the future.
As the oldest member of the Reds’ squad, Van Dijk is determined to make his mark on the club, and leave a lasting legacy to inspire the next generation.
Content Image
Content Image
“I think that's the the biggest achievement you can do, to leave a legacy behind that inspired other kids,” Van Dijk said.
“How amazing is it when a young kid says ‘I want to be like Virgil van Dijk’, like I was when I was young. I wanted to be like Ronaldinho.
“He inspired me and I think so so many players from my generation, and I think that's special.
“When I hear defenders that playing at a high level now saying that they look up to me, those are special moments and something I really appreciate a lot.”