Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has revealed he would love to remain involved in football after retiring, with academy coaching emerging as a role that particularly appeals to him.
The Netherlands international admitted he enjoys working with young players and often visits Liverpool’s academy to watch the club’s emerging talents develop. He believes interacting with youngsters is rewarding and hopes to give something back to the game when his playing career comes to an end.
Softfootball understands that Van Dijk’s passion for youth development stems from his own experience as a youngster, when first-team players visited academy training sessions and left a lasting impression on him.
The Dutch defender said he wants to create similar memories for the next generation, while also drawing inspiration from the enthusiasm and joy young footballers bring to the game.
Although Van Dijk is keen to remain in football after retirement, he admitted he has not decided on the exact role he will pursue, adding that the decision is still some way off.
