Virgil van Dijk reassured over Netherlands future after talks with Xavi

Virgil van Dijk says deciding whether to continue his international career with the Netherlands was a “big and decisive” moment, but talks with new manager Xavi have convinced him to begin a new chapter with the national team.

The Liverpool captain, who has won 96 caps, revealed last month that he was considering his future with the Netherlands following the departure of Ronald Koeman.

Koeman resigned in June after the Netherlands were beaten by Morocco in the last 32 of the World Cup held this summer.

Van Dijk has since held what he described as productive discussions with Xavi, the former Barcelona manager, and says he now feels comfortable continuing his international career.

The Netherlands begin their Nations League campaign against Germany, managed by Jurgen Klopp, on Thursday.

“Clearly, it was a big decision,” Van Dijk said.

“I needed to feel confidence, as well as respect and happiness, and everything else I was looking for. Those things were there from the first moment, so the conversation did not need to be a long one.”

Van Dijk said the meeting with Xavi had left him looking forward to returning to the squad and taking part in the Netherlands’ next fixtures.

“It was a very positive conversation, and I am really looking forward to joining the team and playing the next four important matches,” he added.

“Let’s make the next two years, at least, a great period.”