“We’ve made this decision” – Manager reveals Liverpool player to leave NT squad against his wishes

Ronald Koeman has revealed Virgil van Dijk will leave the Netherlands squad and return to Liverpool.

The national team manager confirmed this during the pre-match press conference on Sunday and his comments are relayed by Het Parool.

Germany will host the Netherlands later today and the Liverpool star will miss the UEFA Nations League tie due to suspension.

The 33-year-old was sent off during Oranje’s 1-1 draw against Hungary last Friday, after receiving two yellow cards in three minutes. After the tie, the centre-back stated he would still be part of the group for the clash against Germany.

According to the manager, the Liverpool defender was quick to make these statements. Koeman claims he and his coaching staff have made a decision to release Van Dijk from the squad.

“He was a little too quick with answers. The fact that he wanted to stay with the group is of course a great attitude, but if you look at what players play in matches these days, it is logical that you would send him home. So, we as staff have made this decision,” he said.

Van Dijk started alongside Inter Milan’s Stefan de Vrij in the heart of the defence against Hungary and Tottenham Hotspur’s Micky van de Ven operated as a left-back.

Van de Ven could replace the Liverpool player on Monday, with Aston Villa’s Ian Maatsen or Ajax’s Jorrel Hato starting on the left.

“That is not illogical, but I will inform the players about this first. That is the normal way, now also,” Koeman explained.

Van Dijk has played every minute in the Premier League and the Champions League for Liverpool this season.