Liverpool manager Arne Slot has expressed his admiration for Virgil van Dijk, admitting he was taken aback by the Dutch defender’s exceptional quality and leadership this season.
At 33 years old, Van Dijk has fully recovered from his ACL injury and is back to his best, guiding Liverpool to the top of the Premier League with a commanding lead over title rivals like Arsenal and Manchester City. His performances have reignited discussions about him being among the best defenders in Premier League history.
Arne Slot: “Wow, This is Another Level”
Slot, who replaced Jurgen Klopp as Liverpool boss, admitted that he hadn’t fully appreciated Van Dijk’s elite ability during his time observing him with the Netherlands national team. However, working with him at Anfield has given him a new perspective.
“Everybody in England would say Virgil van Dijk is the best defender in the world,” Slot told Football Focus. “In the Netherlands, he has received more criticism, but I was surprised in a very positive way. His ability to play through the lines and control the game is on another level. From day one, I thought, ‘Wow, this is different from what I’m used to.’ But people here were already familiar with it.”
Liverpool’s Unexpected Dominance in the Premier League
Liverpool’s title charge under Slot has been nothing short of remarkable. Despite initial doubts about his ability to succeed Jurgen Klopp, the Reds have surged to the top of both the Premier League table and their Champions League group.
“You don’t expect to be leading the table with this kind of margin after 20 games,” Slot admitted. “I didn’t anticipate Manchester City’s poor run, but it’s nice to be in this position.“
What’s Next for Virgil van Dijk?
While Van Dijk remains pivotal to Liverpool’s success, his long-term future at Anfield remains uncertain. His current Liverpool contract expires at the end of the season, and speculation is growing over whether he will extend his stay or seek a new challenge.
“I have no idea how many more games I will play for Liverpool,” Van Dijk recently stated. “Hopefully, I finish this season strong, but beyond that, I don’t know what the future holds.”
With Liverpool chasing another Premier League title, Champions League glory, and a strong domestic campaign, Van Dijk’s form and leadership will be crucial. Whether he signs a new contract or moves on, his legacy at Anfield as one of Liverpool’s greatest defenders is already secure.
For the latest Liverpool transfer news, Premier League updates, and Virgil van Dijk contract talks, stay tuned.