Van Dijk gives ‘explosive’ conference: “They say I destroyed the Netherlands”

Liverpool’s central defense recalled, moreover, that “the plan worked for 89 minutes”, in the defeat suffered before Morocco, in the tie-off for major penalties, in the 16th years of the final, “even if it was a bad game”, since Cody Gakpo scored the goal that inaugurated the marker of BBVA Banker Stadium, at 72 minutes, before, in the ‘last breath’, Issa Diop restored equality.

“ We almost moved on. The idea that I destroyed Dutch football makes absolutely no sense. I didn’t decide that,” he said.

“After ten seconds, it was clear that I would continue”

Virgil van Dijk was also permanent when asked how he addressed the reporters present: “I’m super open. Sometimes there are certain things that have to be said, right? Otherwise, you're just listening to all the complaints. With most of the media, I have zero problems. I never had them. When nonsense is spread around the world, what other way do I have to deal with it?”.

The central defense even considered giving up the main Dutch selection, given the way it was handled by public opinion, but a meeting with Ronald Koeman's successor (formerly Benfica's coach), Xavi Hernández, led him to make the decision to remain available to represent the Netherlands at the highest level.

“ I needed a vacation with my family, and then an important meeting with the national selector. After ten seconds, it was clear that I would continue. What did he say? That I am Virgil van Dijk. It's about trust, appreciation, how important you are to the team... Physically, there is – and there was – no doubt, but you also want to feel appreciation and pleasure”, he concluded.