Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has broken his silence about his uncertain future at the club, making an emotional statement that has stirred mixed reactions among fans.
âI have a deep love for Liverpool and playing for this club means everything to me⌠but it feels like Iâm no longer wanted here,â Van Dijk said during a media interaction after training on Wednesday. âThere have been internal discussions, and it seems the club believes I may be past my prime for the level theyâre aiming for moving ahead.â
With reports suggesting that Liverpool is close to securing a deal for Gonçalo InĂĄcio, seen as Van Dijkâs potential successor, the speculation surrounding the Dutch defenderâs future has intensified. InĂĄcio, a 22-year-old talent from Sporting CP, has long been on Liverpoolâs radar and is considered well-suited to Jurgen Kloppâs dynamic defensive approach.
Despite this, Van Dijk is still hopeful his time at Anfield isn’t over.
âI think thereâs still a way forward,â he added. âI remain optimistic that weâll reach a positive resolution. But ultimately, I need to feel appreciated. Iâve poured my heart into this club and I want to continue giving my all for Liverpool for as long as I can.â
Though Van Dijkâs contract runs until 2025, ongoing negotiations and InĂĄcioâs possible arrival have raised doubts about whether the iconic No. 4 is nearing the end of his legendary Liverpool career.
Should the Reds move on and build for the futureâor does their captain deserve one last extension?