Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has admitted he was surprised by the club’s decision to dismiss manager Arne Slot, revealing that he was not consulted before the Dutchman’s departure from Anfield.
Slot’s exit followed a disappointing campaign in which Liverpool finished fifth in the Premier League, bringing an abrupt end to his two-year spell at the club.
The former Feyenoord manager succeeded Jurgen Klopp in June 2024 and enjoyed a dream start to life on Merseyside, guiding Liverpool to the league title in his debut season. However, a subsequent decline in performances ultimately convinced the club’s owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), to make a managerial change.
Liverpool have reportedly reached an agreement with former Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola, who is expected to take over ahead of the new season.
Speaking after the Netherlands’ narrow 1-0 defeat to Algeria, Van Dijk said he learned of Slot’s dismissal through media reports rather than direct communication from the club.
“That came as a surprise,” the Dutch defender said.
“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.”
The 34-year-old explained that the decision had already been finalised by the time he held discussions with club officials.
“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.”
Van Dijk remains one of Liverpool’s most influential figures and is expected to play a key role as the club enters a new era under incoming boss Iraola.
