Liverpool’s captain, Virgil van Dijk, has admitted that he is uncertain about his future at Anfield as this season draws to a close.
The Dutch defender’s contract expires at the end of the current season, and he has yet to reach an agreement for a new deal with the Premier League front-runners.
Negotiations have been ongoing for some time, as van Dijk is eager to extend his tenure on Merseyside.
However, until a new contract is finalised, the 33-year-old has acknowledged that he cannot ensure he will don a Liverpool jersey when the next season kicks off.
“At this moment, I still have no idea. Honestly,” van Dijk stated following the team’s Champions League exit against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday.
“Right now, I’m not even certain what will happen next year. Anyone who claims they know is not being truthful.
“It’s common knowledge that discussions are taking place behind the scenes, but that’s about it.”
With Liverpool sitting 15 points clear at the Premier League summit and gearing up for a League Cup final against Newcastle on Sunday, van Dijk is concentrating on helping his team finish the season on a high note rather than concerning himself with the future.
“Nothing is on hold. There’s absolutely nothing on hold,” he added. “Listen, we’ve got 10 matches left and that’s where my entire focus lies.
“When there’s news, you’ll be the first to know. I’m still in the dark myself.”
The team’s 4-1 penalty shootout loss to PSG, after a 1-0 defeat in the second leg of the Champions League last 16 at Anfield, was a significant setback for van Dijk and his teammates.
This adds pressure on Reds boss Arne Slot to motivate his squad for the upcoming showdown at Wembley against a Newcastle side struggling with injuries.
Van Dijk remains optimistic that Liverpool can quickly bounce back from the disappointment against PSG.
“You must always learn from tough experiences. That’s part of life for every individual, and it applies to us as footballers as well,” he noted.
“There were aspects we could have improved, but overall, I am proud of the effort we put in.
“We need to acknowledge the disappointment, but if we bring the same intensity to Wembley alongside our fans, I’m confident about the outcome.
“There are only a few matches left and two significant trophies still within our grasp. We will give it everything we’ve got.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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