Xavi Confirms Van Dijk Will Stay On as Netherlands Captain

New Netherlands manager Xavi says Virgil van Dijk remains his captain after a positive meeting, ending talk of international retirement for now.

Xavi, newly installed as Netherlands head coach, has confirmed that Virgil van Dijk will continue as national team captain. The Liverpool defender's international future had been the subject of speculation before the September fixtures, but Xavi moved quickly to settle the matter.

Xavi said he traveled to Liverpool to meet Van Dijk and described the conversation as a positive one. "Yes, he will be the captain," he said, adding that the defender is fit, motivated and ready to lead the side.

The new manager also stressed that selection will depend on current performance, with no place for sentiment. Asked about long-term targets such as Euro 2028 or the 2030 World Cup, Xavi said the focus remains on the present.

Van Dijk said continuing was a significant decision that required trust from the manager, and that it was there from the start of their talks. He said he is looking forward to the four upcoming matches and wants to make the next two years a success.

Liverpool head into the international break with four Dutch players in the squad under the new regime, with Van Dijk remaining the leading figure of the group.