Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk has been targeted by a Dutch legend after another lackluster performance for the Netherlands.
The Netherlands were defeated 3-2 by Italy in Sunday’s Nations League third-place play-off, with goals from Federico Dimarco, Davide Frattesi and Federico Chiesa securing victory for the Azzurri.
Meanwhile, Spain were crowned champions after beating Croatia on penalties following a goalless final in Rotterdam.
It was a disappointing finish for the Netherlands, who were beaten 4-2 by Croatia in the semi-finals last week.
Van Dijk dropped first after that defeat and was again criticized for his defense for Italy’s third goal on Sunday, which proved decisive.
The Dutch captain battled Chiesa in the penalty area, giving him time and space to fire a deflected shot past Dutch keeper Justin Bijlow.
After the defeat, Dutch legend Rafael van der Vaart beat the Liverpool defender.
“Virgil van Dijk is rightly criticized,” said former Real Madrid and Tottenham midfielder Van der Vaart.
“For twenty minutes I thought he was back, but then with Chiesa…he’s barely doing anything.”
Van der Vaart also hinted that Van Dijk could fight for the national team without his centre-back partner Matthijs de Ligt, who left the squad last week due to injury. “We miss Matthijs de Ligt in his current form, let’s not forget him,” added Van der Vaart.
After the defeat to Italy, Van Dijk said he was “ashamed” of the final result.
“He’s not good enough,” said the Liverpool defender.
“The first half was bad. It can’t happen. You are playing for your honor today. I am ashamed.”
Liverpool will be hoping Van Dijk can return to his best form ahead of the 2023/24 season after a disappointing season with the Reds.
Jürgen Klopp’s side meet German club Karlsruher in their first pre-season friendly on July 19. The first Premier League match will be played at Chelsea on August 13.
