Arne Slot has come under fire, accused of playing a key role in Virgil van Dijk’s unexpected early return to Liverpool during the international break.
The Reds’ captain received a red card late in the Netherlands’ Nations League draw against Hungary on Friday after picking up two bookings within three minutes.
This dismissal ruled him out of the midweek clash against Germany due to suspension.
Despite this, Van Dijk was initially expected to stay with the national team.
However, plans changed when the 33-year-old decided to withdraw from the squad and return to England ahead of Sunday’s showdown with Chelsea at Anfield
This decision drew criticism from fans and pundits in the Netherlands.
In explaining his choice, Van Dijk said: “I wanted to stay with the team to give the lads my support, but now I have decided it is better to go home.
“A lot has been said about the massive pile of matches we are playing in this period and all the travelling.
“This is a good moment to get some rest.
“With all the matches we have coming, I fully understand that the club thinks it is a good moment to get some rest.”
Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf has reported that Arne Slot may have played a direct role in influencing a change of plans regarding Virgil van Dijk’s involvement with the national team.
Following the Hungary match, it is suggested that the new Reds boss sent a text message to one of his key players, which may have prompted discussions about his future.
Van Dijk initially intended to remain with the national team, but it was reported that his club intervened, leading to a shift in his plans.
The situation became critical after Van Dijk received a red card, which appeared costly for Ronald Koeman’s side, who were trailing 1-0 at the time due to Roland Sallai’s first-half volley.
However, in a dramatic turn of events, Denzel Dumfries headed in Cody Gakpo’s free-kick in the 83rd minute, earning the team a point with the equalizer.
Van Dijk expressed his frustration over the circumstances surrounding his red card, which marked the first he had received in 77 appearances for his country.
The defender received his first yellow card for dissent after approaching referee Lukas Fahndrich to complain about a foul on Donyell Malen.
The second yellow was issued for a more straightforward foul.
Van Dijk told ESPN: “[The red card] should not have happened. But I’m especially angry about the first.
“They say the captain is the only one who can talk to the referee.
“I walk up to him. Up tempo, but not in a nasty way, not at all.
“Very respectful.
“Because I felt it was a breakaway player, he did not go for the ball at all.
“If even the captain cannot say anything… then it gets difficult.”
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