Virgil van Dijk is optimistic that Arne Slot will achieve great success as Liverpool captain at Anfield in the upcoming season.
Virgil van Dijk and Liverpool’s Dutch contingent are eagerly anticipating the arrival of compatriot Arne Slot as the new manager at Anfield. The 33-year-old captain has already had discussions with the former Feyenoord coach, as he enters the final year of his contract. Slot will officially take charge on June 1, following in the footsteps of the beloved Jurgen Klopp and overseeing a significant transition at the club.
Speaking from the Netherlands’ camp ahead of Euro 2024, Van Dijk expressed his support for the new coach, stating, “I still have a year left on my contract. I am club captain and I have made it clear I am there for the new coach and enthusiastic about the next season. Obviously, there will be a lot of changes, but I am confident we will be successful.”
Slot wasted no time in making his mark on the coaching staff, with Ruben Peeters, who previously worked as head of performance under Slot at Feyenoord, set to join him at Liverpool. Van Dijk congratulated Slot on his appointment and discussed the team and the future, but his focus is currently on the national team.
Midfielder Ryan Gravenberch also welcomed Slot’s arrival, believing that the Dutchman will have a positive impact on his career. Gravenberch, who joined Liverpool from Bayern Munich in 2022, has shown glimpses of his potential under Klopp but hopes to thrive under Slot’s guidance. He described Slot as a coach who wants to play good football, indicating his excitement for the future.
Before Slot officially takes charge, Van Dijk, Gravenberch, and Cody Gakpo will be representing the Netherlands at the Euros this summer. Alongside former Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum, they form part of Ronald Koeman’s preliminary squad. The Dutch team has high hopes, with a blend of emerging stars and experienced veterans ready to make an impact on the international stage.