“That affects me" - Virgil van Dijk responds to heavy criticism from Dutch legends following loss at EURO 2024
Liverpool and the Netherlands skipper Virgil van Dijk has responded to his critics following the Oranje's 3-2 loss against Austria at Euro 2024. The defender has come under heavy criticism from the Dutch media and former Dutch players for his poor showing against Ralf Rangnick's side.
The Netherlands only managed to secure a third-placed finish behind Austria and France following their disappointing loss against the Austrians. They qualified for the Round of 16 as one of the best-ranked third-place teams where they will take on Romania.
Dutch football great Marco van Basten was critical of Van Dijk following the Netherlands' defeat to Austria at Euro 2024. He highlighted that the Dutch skipper not only needs to improve his game but also show more leadership. The three-time Ballon d'Or winner said, as quoted by DAVEOCKOP:
“Virgil van Dijk has to show more leadership. He is our captain, he is the man responsible and he is the big leader of our team. Criticized him before, unfortunately it led to zero improvement. It’s disappointing that I have to keep repeating myself.”
Van Dijk responded to the criticism, insisting that he understands the situation. He admitted that he needs to improve his game and take more responsibility. The 32-year-old said, as quoted by DAVEOCKOP:
“[Some incidents] are snapshots in the match, so I find that difficult [to contend with]. The criticism, especially after the last match, I can completely understand and I’m working on it, of course. I blame myself and I’m not crazy – it can be better and should be better. That’s what I’m working on and I think [recognising that] is the basis for improving."
The Liverpool star added:
"Last match [against Austria] I certainly didn’t play my best and that doesn’t happen very often this season, luckily. The responsibility that I have and take and want to take is very high, especially with [the national team] and with Liverpool, of course, it’s the same. That affects me and we have discussed that in recent days. So I also think I can and should be better at [leading].”
The Netherlands started their Euro 2024 campaign with a 2-1 win against Poland before settling for a 0-0 draw against France. They then ended up on the wrong end of the nail-biting 3-2 thriller with Austria.
Netherlands legend hits out at skipper Virgil van Dijk, labels performance 'disgraceful'
Dutch football great Rafael van der Vaart hit out at the Netherlands skipper Virgil van Dijk after Ronald Koeman's side lost 3-2 to Austria in Euro 2024. The Oranje finished third in their group following their loss in their final group-stage game but still qualified for last 16 as one of the best third-placed teams.
Van der Vaart slammed Van Dijk for his poor showing against Austria and his inability to organize the backline. He said, via AFC Ajax:
"We played the way Virgil van Dijk just talked! We just had to watch a disgraceful performance! I want the captain from our country to show some PASSION!"
The Netherlands will take on Romania in the Round of 16 of Euro 2024 on Tuesday, July 2.