Van Dijk's 99th international is eclipsed by media criticism
On Thursday evening, Virgil van Dijk, provided he does not get injured, will take the field for the ninety‑ninth time for the Netherlands, a step towards his hundredth international, while the Dutch media in the public sphere are already noting that the fun around his presence is waning.
Cap‑milestone and historical context
On Thursday evening, Van Dijk, if he stays fit, will take the field for the ninety‑ninth time for the Netherlands. With that appearance he puts himself on the brink of one hundred internationals, a list on which only ten players stand ahead of him.
The captain is now 35 years old, raising the question how long he can still play a role in the national team. His physical condition is now being scrutinised even more closely by both fans and analysts.
Media‑criticism and opinions
Coach Gertjan Verbeek recently let it be known that Van Dijk made a negative impression during the first two matches of the international break, especially against Germany, where he was out‑run several times in the second half.
Verbeek wondered whether Van Dijk is still viable against stronger opponents; he thought the performance against Serbia was sufficient, but already saw age playing a role against Germany.
Sneijder doubts Xavi's rapid rise as Dutch coach amid Nations League start
Van Dijk himself said that Xavi Hernández convinced him in ten seconds to play for the Netherlands, with the words ‘You are Virgil van Dijk’.
In the Skiete Willy podcast, former goalkeeper Ronald Waterreus voiced criticism: if he were the national coach, he would no longer select Van Dijk, although he acknowledges that the defender is a good player.
Waterreus found Xavi’s initial selection striking and lacking flair, but later mentioned new flair from Mexx Meerdink, who scored two goals against Serbia, and Ruben van Bommel, who, according to him, gave a positive boost.
Wim Kieft rates Virgil van Dijk higher than legendary Ruud Krol
On Thursday evening, the Netherlands play at 20:45 in Thessaloniki against Greece, the leader of Group A2 in the Nations League, which currently has six points – two more than the Netherlands.