Van Dijk says he was shocked by Liverpool’s decision to sack Arne Slot, revealing he was not consulted before the club’s change in direction

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has admitted he was taken aback by the club’s decision to dismiss manager Arne Slot, revealing that he only became aware of the development after arriving in Amsterdam and seeing media reports.

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Netherlands international said he was not consulted before Liverpool’s hierarchy made the final decision to part ways with Slot, whose brief but eventful spell at Anfield has now come to an abrupt end.

Liverpool confirmed the Dutch manager’s departure following a disappointing campaign that saw the club finish fifth in the Premier League, despite earlier success under his leadership.

Slot had initially enjoyed a strong start at Anfield after succeeding Jürgen Klopp in June 2024, guiding the Reds to a league title in his debut season and raising expectations of a sustained new era.

However, a sharp decline in form during the following campaign led to growing pressure and ultimately prompted the club’s owners, Fenway Sports Group, to make a decisive managerial change.

Former AFC Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has since been lined up as Slot’s successor, with reports indicating an agreement has already been reached for him to take charge.

Speaking after the Netherlands’ 1-0 defeat to Algeria, Van Dijk expressed gratitude for Slot’s contribution while acknowledging the shock surrounding the decision.

“That came as a surprise. I spoke to Arne and his assistant Sipke Hulshoff, and I’m grateful for everything they’ve done for me. I know Liverpool will come out of this well,” Van Dijk said.

He added that discussions with the club only took place after the decision had already been finalised.

“I landed in Amsterdam on Saturday, and the news had already been leaked. I then had discussions with the club, but the decision had already been made by then. It’s not as though they asked me for my opinion,” he added.

Despite the turbulence, Van Dijk remains one of Liverpool’s most consistent performers, having featured across all competitions throughout the season and playing a central role in both defensive stability and leadership on the pitch.

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The defender, who is under contract until 2027, is expected to remain a key figure as Liverpool begin a new chapter under incoming management.