Liverpool haven’t had the best of seasons. After lifting the Premier League title last year, their defence of the crown in 2025/26 has looked shaky.
With just seven league games left, the Reds sit fifth—five points behind fourth-placed Aston Villa—leaving their Champions League hopes hanging in the balance. Questions are also being raised about manager Arne Slot amid the inconsistency.
Dutch fans are watching closely too, especially with several Liverpool players expected to feature for the Netherlands at the 2026 World Cup. Virgil van Dijk, Cody Gakpo, Ryan Gravenberch, and Jeremie Frimpong all represent both club and country, but it’s Van Dijk’s treatment that has sparked criticism.
Former Dutch defender Hans Kraay Jr has hit out at the English media, defending the Liverpool captain. Van Dijk recently impressed for the Netherlands, scoring in a 2-1 win over Norway and helping secure a 1-1 draw against Ecuador despite his side going down to 10 men early on.
Kraay Jr questioned the sudden shift in opinion, pointing out how Van Dijk was once hailed as one of the Premier League’s greatest defenders, only to be heavily criticised shortly after a few poor results under Slot. He praised Van Dijk’s commanding display against Norway, highlighting his superb passing and outstanding headed goal.
Now 34, Van Dijk has already won two Premier League titles, but his long-term future at Anfield remains uncertain—especially after Mohamed Salah confirmed he’ll leave at the end of the season. Although Van Dijk signed a lucrative deal until 2027, it’s unclear if he’ll receive a similar extension later on.
Despite his age, the Dutchman has still featured 45 times this season, proving he can perform at the highest level. Attention will now turn to how he finishes the campaign and performs at the upcoming World Cup
