Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk believes retired professional players need to consider the 'repercussions' of their criticism of younger players in the modern game. Van Dijk, 34, has been vocal on the subject of criticism from pundits this season, as the Premier League champions have endured a second-season slump under head coach Arne Slot. The Dutchman was embroiled in a battle of words with Wayne Rooney, and labelled the criticism directed at him by former Manchester United captain 'lazy'. 'I feel like the ex-top players have a responsibility to the new generation. 💬Virgil van Dijk opens up on the role of media in football and how it impacts players.

Source: Metro February 06, 2026 11:57 UTC