Virgil van Dijk has warned football pundits that they carry a “duty of responsibility” towards younger players, urging former professionals not to cross the line from fair criticism into what he described as bullying driven by clicks and virality.
The Liverpool captain has spoken openly about the impact of modern media culture after finding himself at the centre of a public disagreement with Wayne Rooney earlier this season, following criticism of his performances.
Van Dijk raises concern over media culture
At 34, Van Dijk says he is comfortable dealing with scrutiny, but fears the environment facing the next generation of footballers is far more damaging. Speaking to Gary Neville, the defender stressed that criticism is part of the game, but warned it can quickly become harmful.
“For me personally, I can deal with it, but I’m a bit worried for the next generation. I feel like the ex-top players have a responsibility to the new generation,” — Virgil van Dijk
Van Dijk acknowledged that analysis and criticism are unavoidable at elite level, but believes the line is crossed when comments are made primarily to provoke reaction.
“Criticism is absolutely normal and part of the game. But sometimes it goes into being clickbait, saying things to provoke things, without thinking about the repercussions on the mental side of players,” — Virgil van Dijk
Impact on younger players highlighted
The Liverpool skipper highlighted how social media has amplified the effect of negative commentary, particularly on younger footballers who are constantly exposed to online reaction.
He explained that while players are often advised to avoid social media, the reality is far more complex.
“When you play a good game, younger players check all the positive praise. But when you have a worse game and you’re getting bullied all over social media, it can really affect you.”
Van Dijk said he has seen the impact first-hand, both in the past and in the present, and believes the issue will only intensify as platforms continue to prioritise engagement.
Respect vs criticism at Liverpool
Liverpool have endured a difficult campaign by their own standards, sitting sixth in the table after a prolonged dip in form earlier in the season. Van Dijk accepted that criticism of performances is justified, but drew a clear distinction between accountability and disrespect.
“Criticism for the season we are having is well-deserved. But you have criticism and you have disrespect.”
The defender also addressed pressure on head coach Arne Slot, insisting the club remain calm despite external noise.
Backing Slot and the long-term process
Van Dijk stressed that Liverpool are not a club that reacts impulsively, even amid heightened scrutiny.
“We are in a process of things, and it takes time. Liverpool is not a club of making rash decisions — they trust the process”
He acknowledged the pressure modern managers face, but believes Slot deserves time and respect to see his project through.
Key Insights
- Van Dijk says pundits have a responsibility to younger players
- He warned against click-driven criticism and online bullying
- Social media is seen as amplifying negative impact
- Liverpool criticism is accepted, but disrespect is not
- Van Dijk backed Arne Slot amid pressure
What’s Next
Liverpool will look to steady their season on the pitch as attention continues to swirl off it. For Van Dijk, the wider conversation is unlikely to fade, with the defender calling for a cultural shift in how criticism is delivered in an era dominated by social media and instant reaction.
Have pundits gone too far in the modern game, or is harsh criticism simply part of elite football in the digital age?
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