Liverpool decides on Van Dijk's future

The future of Virgil van Dijk at Anfield is being closely examined amid concerns about his performance, age, and Liverpool’s reconstruction strategy.

Liverpool excited fans last summer when both Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah signed two-year contract extensions. Both players are icons of the club’s recent successful era, contributing to Liverpool’s second Premier League title in five years.

However, Liverpool’s title defense season has been chaotic. The team’s collective drop in form has sparked doubts about whether Van Dijk or Salah will complete their contracts, especially as the club faces a squad rebuild.

David Ornstein confirmed that Salah’s sale in the summer is possible since the Egyptian striker has only one year left on his contract. This has fueled rumors that Liverpool might also consider parting ways with Van Dijk, who is no longer at his peak performance.

Nevertheless, according to Pete O’Rourke from Football Insider, Liverpool has made a firm decision and has no plans to sell Van Dijk anytime soon. The 35-year-old defender will be allowed to complete his current contract, which runs until the summer of 2027.

Sources indicate Van Dijk is still regarded as a key figure for next season’s plans, not only for his skills but also as team captain. The coaching staff believes his experience and influence remain vital during this transitional period.

In reality, Van Dijk has not maintained his exceptionally high standards. He conceded three penalties since mid-November and recently made a mistake that led to a goal in the loss to Bournemouth. However, this decline is relative, considering his previously outstanding baseline.

A player who usually performs at a 9/10 level and then drops to 8/10 still ranks among the world’s best defenders. Van Dijk could almost secure a starting spot at any top club if he left Liverpool now.

The playing context also does not favor Van Dijk. He is playing alongside a new left-back for the first time, while regular partner Ibrahima Konate has had an unstable season. Defensive inconsistencies have magnified his weaknesses.

More importantly, Van Dijk rarely suffers injuries. In his thirties, maintaining durability to play around 50 matches per season is a significant asset. For Liverpool, this reliability is enough to keep their confidence in him.