Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk has confirmed he has no plans to retire at the end of the current campaign, even if he does not secure a contract extension with the club. The 35-year-old’s existing deal is set to expire in June 2027, with discussions regarding a potential renewal anticipated to begin in the near future.
Commitment to the Future
Van Dijk has maintained a consistent presence for the Reds this season, playing every minute of their matches. He has formed a defensive partnership with recent arrival Jeremy Jacquet, showing no significant signs of decline. Speaking following Liverpool’s victory over Crystal Palace on Sunday, the Netherlands international expressed his desire to remain active in professional football.
“I want to keep playing and continue what I’m doing so let’s see what the season brings,” Van Dijk stated. He noted that while he has enjoyed his tenure at Anfield, he is prepared for any outcome regarding his future. “If that will be extended, that’s the case. If not, then I will go somewhere else. There’s nothing to report at the moment but that doesn’t mean that there’s any stress or anything. I feel good but it’s not about me at the moment. I’m not in any panic whatsoever,” he added.
Injury Status and Squad Depth
Regarding his physical condition, Van Dijk confirmed he has withdrawn from the upcoming Netherlands squad for matches against Greece and Germany. He described the issue as a minor concern, stating, “Mentally I’m in a good place, physically I’ve been struggling with a little niggle the last couple of weeks but I do everything in my power to be out there.”
Liverpool currently faces challenges regarding defensive depth following the departure of Ibrahima Konate to Real Madrid. While Jeremy Jacquet has performed well, the club is managing fitness concerns surrounding Joe Gomez, whose contract also expires next summer, and the absence of Giovanni Leoni, who is currently sidelined with an ACL tear.
