Even though Virgil van Dijk captains both Liverpool and the Netherlands, Ronald Koeman believes he needs to grow as a leader.
The 32-year-old defender, who has mainly impressed this season, came under strange criticism from the Dutch national team boss, who made his remarks on Zwiggo Sports.
“I thought he was the old Virgil again in recent international matches,” Koeman remarked. I still believe he can do better, though. I believe one critique is that he has the potential to be even more of a leader.
Jurgen Klopp named Van Dijk as Liverpool’s next permanent captain after James Milner and Jordan Henderson left the team this summer.
The centre back has proven to be a fantastic leader and club ambassador both on and off the field, winning over many supporters with his wise selection.
Nevertheless, Koeman’s remarks appear to indicate differently, as the former manager of FC Barcelona and Everton decided to pick an odd fight with one of his greatest players.
Clearly Koeman hasn’t watched Liverpool’s Van Dijk this season
The majority of responses from Liverpool supporters regarding Van Dijk’s performance this season since taking the captaincy would be quite favourable.
This season, the Dutch international has been Liverpool’s bright spot and a major factor in the team’s best performance in the Premier League.
Furthermore, it’s evident to Koeman that the Dutch manager hasn’t seen nearly enough of Van Dijk play for Liverpool, since the defender is possibly at the peak of his career under Klopp.
