Van Dijk: ‘We failed’ as Netherlands crash out of World Cup to Morocco

Virgil van Dijk has admitted the Netherlands “failed” at the 2026 World Cup after his country’s shock last-32 exit to Morocco on penalties. The Liverpool captain posted a lengthy message on Instagram addressing supporters directly following the defeat in Mexico.

Ronald Koeman’s side were eliminated after Justin Kluivert, Quinten Timber and Crysencio Summerville all missed from the spot in the shootout. Morocco go on to face France in the last 16, having already dispatched Canada in the tournament, while Spain, the USA or Belgium await the winner in a potential semi-final on that side of the draw.

Van Dijk takes ‘full responsibility’

Writing on Instagram on Monday, Van Dijk said: “As captain, all I ever wanted was to make this country proud. To see our World Cup end so early is heartbreaking because I know how much this team gave every single day.”

He continued: “A lot has been said and that is for another day. Now is about accepting that we failed, and we take full responsibility for that.”

The defender also thanked the travelling supporters and those back home, adding: “I’d like to thank our travelling fans and everyone back home who believed in us and stood by us until the end. We saw you, and we felt your support every step of the way.”

Koeman departs, Slot in the frame

Head coach Ronald Koeman stepped down from the role in the days following the elimination. According to the Mirror, former Liverpool manager Arne Slot is among the frontrunners being considered to take over the Netherlands job.

Should Slot be appointed, he would be reunited with Ryan Gravenberch and Cody Gakpo, both of whom he worked with during his time at Anfield. Intriguingly, one of his first fixtures in charge could see the Netherlands take on Germany in the UEFA Nations League in September, a match that could pit him against Jurgen Klopp, who is widely expected to take charge of Die Mannschaft in succession to Julian Nagelsmann.

Speaking to Magenta TV, Klopp addressed the timing of any potential move given his current commitments away from club football. “The timing even now is not perfect because I am currently under contract with Red Bull, but it is still better than it has ever been,” he said. “When I stopped at Liverpool, I lacked the energy for even one more year with the club, and I’m more than recharged now.”

Van Dijk back at Liverpool early

Van Dijk is now expected to return to Liverpool for pre-season training ahead of schedule following the early World Cup exit. It will be his first meeting with new head coach Andoni Iraola, who succeeded Slot at Anfield at the end of last season.

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