Van Dijk complains about appreciation after press conference with Xavi

Virgil van Dijk sat next to national team coach Xavi during a press conference in Zeist and looked ahead to the home match against Germany at the Johan Cruijff Arena. The captain emphasized that he is viewed internationally very differently than in the Netherlands. Football reporter Mikos Gouka noted his outspoken remarks.

The Spanish Xavi said that the Oranje has been a family since day one of the gathering and that his squad is ready for Germany. He underscored the unity within the team and the ambition to win in Amsterdam's stadium. The latest update of the press release came at 12:17.

Van Dijk on his decision

Van Dijk began by explaining the process surrounding his decision to stay with the Oranje. “I needed a well‑deserved holiday with my family, after which a meeting with the new national coach followed and within ten seconds I knew I would continue,” he said. He indicated that he wanted to feel appreciation and that he physically has no problem at all.

He emphasized that he has always felt all support internally, but that external appreciation is lacking. “It’s not about me, that’s actually the problem. We haven’t played a good World Cup,” he added. The fireworks during the press conference did not come from Xavi, but from the media’s critical questions.

Xavi chooses experienced reserve captains for the Oranje

Criticism and international perception

When a journalist remarked that he had insisted on a five‑man defence against Morocco, Van Dijk responded sharply. “Clear‑cut nonsense; the tactical plan is not up to me,” he said. He pointed out that he is often confronted with such accusations directed at him.

Van Dijk explained that the staff have a plan to attack the opponent and that players must follow that plan. He described the final minute in which Diop headed in the 1‑1 as a “very poor match, but we were almost through.” It illustrates how close they were to a victory.

He noted a huge difference between the national and international media. “Internally I receive all support, but externally there is often an attempt to portray me extra badly,” he said. He referred to the suggestion that he and Ronald Koeman had ruined Dutch football, and called that “far from the truth.”

Finally, Van Dijk stated that he believes the Netherlands can beat Germany, based on what he has seen in training. He confirmed his commitment to Euro 2028 and indicated that tomorrow’s first goalkeeper may be Bart Verbruggen. His message ends with a call for a fair and equal assessment of his play.