The future, even for legends, is inevitable. Liverpool manager Arne Slot has openly discussed the club’s planning for a life beyond Virgil van Dijk, a reality no fan wants to contemplate but one the hierarchy recognizes with clear-eyed pragmatism.
Slot emphasized that any moves being made aren’t born of panic, but rather a long-term vision for sustained success. This isn’t about replacing Van Dijk immediately; it’s about ensuring Liverpool remains a dominant force for years to come, regardless of individual player lifecycles.
The recent acquisition of Jeremy Jacquet, the 20-year-old Rennes defender, is a clear signal of this intent. He’s widely considered the heir apparent to Van Dijk, a player being groomed to eventually step into the colossal role left by the Dutch international.
Slot was candid about the natural progression of time, acknowledging Van Dijk’s contract extends to 2027, but stressing the importance of proactive planning. The club isn’t ignoring the present, but it’s simultaneously building a foundation for the future.
“Everything done over here is never from panic,” Slot explained. “It’s always a long-term idea, something that has been thought about for a long time.” He highlighted the club’s commitment to considering both immediate needs and future stability across all positions.
Van Dijk’s impact since his arrival from Southampton in 2018 has been nothing short of transformative. He has been the cornerstone of Liverpool’s most successful era in decades, leading the team to Premier League and Champions League glory.
Even at 34, Van Dijk continues to perform at an elite level, currently leading the Premier League in aerial duels won with an impressive 119. His physical condition and consistent performance suggest he could extend his peak form for several more years.
Slot acknowledged this possibility, hinting that a contract extension beyond 2027 isn’t out of the question if Van Dijk maintains his remarkable fitness. The manager praised his ability to consistently play at a high level, even while simultaneously representing his country.
However, the club isn’t relying on “ifs.” They understand that even the most exceptional athletes eventually reach a point where they can no longer maintain their peak performance. The signing of Jacquet and other young talents like Giovanni Leoni demonstrates a commitment to building a robust defensive future.
Van Dijk’s influence extends beyond statistics and trophies. His leadership in the dressing room and his unparalleled ability to read the game make him the gold standard for defenders. For now, the focus remains firmly on maximizing his contributions.
Liverpool’s strategy isn’t about diminishing Van Dijk’s importance; it’s about recognizing his legacy and ensuring the club continues to thrive long after he’s moved on. It’s a testament to their ambition and a sign of a club that learns from its past while relentlessly pursuing future success.
Here's a snapshot of Van Dijk's remarkable career at Liverpool:
Appearances (All Competitions): 353 (ongoing)
Goals (All Competitions): 31
Assists (All Competitions): 16
Clean Sheets: 130+
Premier League Titles: 2 (2019–20, 2024–25)
UEFA Champions League: 1 (2018–19)
FA Cup: 1 (2021–22)
League Cup: 2 (2022, 2024)
FA Community Shield: 1 (2022)
UEFA Super Cup: 1 (2019)
FIFA Club World Cup: 1 (2019)
