Former Netherlands manager Gertjan Verbeek has criticized captain Virgil van Dijk, claiming the Liverpool defender’s recent performances and public comments are unfair to head coach Ronald Koeman. Speaking with FCUpdate, Verbeek argued that Van Dijk appeared struggled against high-level opposition and acted inappropriately during a recent press conference regarding tactical decisions.
Verbeek questions Van Dijk’s current form against elite opposition
Analyzing the current international window, Verbeek identified the Netherlands captain as the player who left the most negative impression. He specifically pointed to a match against Germany, noting that Van Dijk was beaten several times, particularly in the second half. Verbeek questioned whether this level of performance is sustainable when facing stronger opponents.
The analyst contrasted these struggles with Van Dijk’s appearances against lower-ranked teams, such as Serbia, where he believes the defender still earns a sufficient grade. However, Verbeek stated that the match against Germany revealed that age is beginning to impact the defender’s game.
Tactical disputes and the relationship with Ronald Koeman
Beyond on-pitch performance, Verbeek expressed surprise at Van Dijk’s conduct during a press conference last week. The analyst criticized the captain for reacting sharply toward the Dutch press and attempting to revisit past issues during what should have been a fresh start.
A primary point of contention involves a tactical shift to a five-man defense used in a match against Morocco. Verbeek described it as “not neat” for Van Dijk to claim that playing with five defenders was not his choice. Verbeek argued that based on Ronald Koeman’s management style, the coach likely involved his key players in tactical changes and would have consulted his captain before altering the formation.
According to Verbeek, Van Dijk’s decision to distance himself from that tactical choice is characteristic of the player’s current state of mind.
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