A top Dutch footballing voice has spoken out on Virgil van Dijk‘s resurgence under new head coach Arne Slot.
The Dutch defender, once regarded as the best centre-back in the world, had seen his form dip over the past couple of seasons. Under Ronald Koeman with the Dutch national team, Van Dijk struggled to replicate his club form, leading to questions about his long-term prospects.
However, Slot, known for his tactical awareness and ability to rejuvenate players, has worked wonders with Van Dijk. His approach to defending forward and building from the back vertically has allowed the 33-year-old to flourish once again
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Valentijn Driessen stunned by Van Dijk turnaround
In his column for the Dutch Telegraph, top sports journalist Valentijn Driessen has been surprised at how much the defender alongside the likes of Mohamed Salah has thrived under Slot.
“An additional benefit is that the players radiate pleasure and that faded stars such as Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah flourish.” said Driessen.
“Van Dijk does with Slot what he failed to do with Oranje and national coach Ronald Koeman: defend forward and build up vertically, so no playing hide-and-seek and no hundred riskless balls wide.”
Slot and Liverpool are responsible for Manchester United‘s first home defeat of the new season.
The top Dutch footballing voice also praised Liverpool chiefs for appointing Slot, who heads into the international break unbeaten.
“Whoever brought Arne Slot to the attention of Liverpool, on the other hand, deserves a fat bonus. He saw so much untapped quality in the group of players that new players were not a priority.
“The flawless start of the season was given extra shine with the 3-0 in Manchester. At times it was enjoyable to watch the field play, although the finishing was insufficient.”
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