Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has insisted that he is not worried about his contract situation as he approaches the final months of his current deal at Anfield. The 35-year-old is open to continuing his career at Liverpool, but has made it clear that he will consider other options if an extension is not agreed.
Virgil Van Dijk relaxed about his Liverpool future
Van Dijk joined Liverpool in 2018 and has remained a key figure in their defence. His current contract is due to expire in the summer, meaning questions about his future are likely to grow as the season progresses.
As reported by BBC Sport, despite the uncertainty, the Dutch defender has no intention of rushing into a decision. Speaking about his situation, he said he was comfortable with whatever outcome eventually follows.
“I’m not in any panic whatsoever. I want to keep playing and continue what I’m doing. Let’s see what the season brings. I’ve had an amazing time already so far. If that will be extended, that’s the case. If not, then I will go somewhere else,” Van Dijk explained.
He also made it clear that there was no immediate update on negotiations and that the lack of progress was not causing him stress. His comments suggest that he remains open to staying but is prepared for a fresh challenge if Liverpool do not offer him a new deal.
The defender has continued to feature regularly for his club, playing every minute of their Premier League campaign so far. However, he has recently been dealing with a minor physical issue.
Netherlands withdrawal raises fitness concerns
Van Dijk’s contract comments came as he withdrew from the Netherlands squad for their upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Greece and Germany.
As reported by Goal, the Dutch Football Association confirmed that the Liverpool captain would miss both fixtures because he was not considered physically ready. Striker Brian Brobbey has also been ruled out for the same reason.
Van Dijk had featured in Liverpool’s recent matches, including their 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace. However, he admitted that a minor problem had affected him over the past few weeks.
“Mentally, I’m in a good place. Physically, I’ve been struggling with a little niggle the past couple of weeks but I do everything in my power to be out there,” he said.
His absence is a setback for the Netherlands, particularly because of the experience and leadership he brings to their defence. Van Dijk earned his 100th international cap in the 2-1 victory over Serbia last October.
Brobbey’s withdrawal is another concern for the Dutch side. The striker had previously been forced off injured during their opening Nations League meeting with Germany and missed subsequent matches against Serbia and Greece.
Van Dijk’s Premier League stats for Liverpool so far this season, as per Football Express–
Competition Appearances Interceptions Tackling Success Clearances
Premier League 10 11 75% 71
Liverpool still searching for consistency
Van Dijk also discussed Liverpool’s performances this season, describing the team as a work in progress. Despite sitting fourth after 10 league matches, they remain nine points behind leaders Arsenal.
The defender believes there have been mixed performances, with some victories that could have been more convincing and defeats in which the team showed encouraging signs.
“Some games we could have done much better that we won. And some games we lost but we were good. We’re trying to find consistency as that’s the only way to be successful,” he said.
The Merseyside football club will hope to improve their results while also keeping their captain fit for the remainder of the campaign. With his contract situation unresolved, Van Dijk’s performances and future decisions will remain important talking points in the months ahead.