The 35-year-old has won 96 caps for his country since making his debut in 2015. David Ramos/Getty ImagesAug. 31, 2026 7:00 am EDT Updated Virgil van Dijk says he will hold talks with new Netherlands head coach Xavi before deciding whether to continue playing international football.The 35-year-old Liverpool captain, who has won 96 caps for his country, is looking forward to sitting down with the former Barcelona head coach, who was recently appointed as Ronald Koeman’s successor.Asked whether he would keep playing for Netherlands ahead of the European Championships in 2028, Van Dijk said: “It’s a good question. I will have that meeting with the new manager first. Let’s see.
“It’s a little bit down to that conversation. Everyone wants to feel appreciated, loved and important. I feel like I’m still very much valuable and important for the team.“If the manager sees it that way then we’re going to have another good two years. If not then we will see. I will have the meeting with him and then we’ll go from there.”Koeman resigned as Netherlands boss following a last-32 defeat by Morocco at this summer’s World Cup.Xavi’s reign will start against Jurgen Klopp’s Germany in the Nations League next month.Asked whether he felt he needed to focus on club football at this stage of his career, Van Dijk added: “Not at all. Some players do but not me. With anything you do, you want to feel respected, loved and appreciated for your work and the quality that you bring. Let’s see if that’s still the case and then we’ll go from there.”Aug 31, 2026Connections: Sports EditionSpot the pattern. Connect the termsFind the hidden link between sports terms
