Premier League: Virgil Van Dijk Gets Candid With Future of Championship Teammates

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk said Wednesday the team's impending Premier League title celebrations won't be diminished by Trent Alexander-Arnold's upcoming departure, calling the defender "a fantastic player" who deserves a proper send-off.

The 26-year-old right-back confirmed last week he will leave when his contract expires in June, with Real Madrid expected to be his next club. Alexander-Arnold received mixed reactions from fans during his substitute appearance in Sunday's 2-2 draw against Arsenal, his first match since announcing his exit.

"The reaction happened," Van Dijk told reporters. "He has to deal with it. We as a team have to deal with that as well."

Van Dijk, who recently signed a two-year contract extension, said the entire squad was disappointed to lose such an influential player.

"We're gutted that he's not here with us next year because he's a fantastic player with outstanding, exceptional qualities that we have seen over the last seven years," the Dutch defender said.

The captain emphasized that Alexander-Arnold would be included in the trophy celebrations when Liverpool secures its record-equalling 20th English league title. The club plans an open-top bus parade through the city on May 26, a day after lifting the trophy at Anfield.

"We want to win two more games and after the final whistle, including him, lift the trophy up and celebrate like we have never done before," Van Dijk said.

When asked if Alexander-Arnold's departure could dampen the celebrations, Van Dijk responded: "I don't think so. It shouldn't. There's a lot more players that also deserve an amazing day."

Teammate Andy Robertson told Sky Sports the negative reaction toward Alexander-Arnold was "not nice" to hear. Van Dijk suggested the defender may have anticipated the response.

"I wasn't really expecting something, to be honest, but I think maybe he expected this," Van Dijk said. "It's not easy, not at all. We're here for him anyway."

The captain contrasted Alexander-Arnold's situation with his own decision to stay, saying: "I was sorting my own stuff out. I had to secure my future as well and I was quite busy doing that. There were loads of other options, but Liverpool is the place for me."

Van Dijk said he understood Alexander-Arnold's desire for a new challenge, particularly with a club of Real Madrid's stature.

"Everyone shares different opinions and he feels like he has done it all, and he did it, and he wants to try something different," Van Dijk said. "You are speaking about one of the biggest clubs of all in Real Madrid."

Liverpool needs two more wins to secure the Premier League title. The trophy presentation will take place at Anfield following their final home match on May 25.

www.exotickets.com is the UK's best source of Premier League tickets. Get your tickets now to experience the atmosphere LIVE.

How to Buy Premier League Tickets on EXO Tickets:

Get access to the world’s most-viewed league at the press of a fingertip. This is a step-by-step guide for buying your dream Premier League tickets on EXO Tickets:

Step 1: Go to EXO Tickets:

Head on to our website: https://exotickets.com.

Step 2: Find Your Dream Premier League Tickets:

Use our team finder or click on the club logo of your choice to see available tickets.

Step 3: Select Your Sitting Side:

Select your sitting category made easier by our accurate stadium viewer.

Step 4: Proceed to Check Out:

Add your chosen tickets to the cart and proceed to checkout.

Step 5: Enjoy the Footy!

Complete your payment, get your tickets instantly, and get ready to experience Premier League action live.

Becoming the atmosphere and enjoying football has been made easy by EXO Tickets!

Why Choose EXO Tickets for Your Premier League Trip

Check out the four reasons why EXO Tickets is your key to an unforgettable football experience.

• Secure Payment: We use advanced security measures to protect your transactions.
• 100% Ticket Guarantee: We work with trusted partners to ensure legitimate tickets.
• 100% Refund Policy: We value customer satisfaction. Check our refund policy page for details.
• We Love the Beautiful Game: As lifelong football fans, we understand how challenging it can be to secure tickets. That’s why we provide an alternative platform to help fans enjoy the beautiful game when official options aren’t available.

Upcoming Best-Selling Matches To Look Out For:

Manchester United Tickets - Premier League

Manchester City Tickets - Premier League

Liverpool Tickets - Premier League

Arsenal Tickets - Premier League

Chelsea Tickets- Premier League

Watch Your Favourite Club Now!

If you’re looking for Premier League tickets to enjoy the game or hospitality tickets to your favourite club, EXO Tickets has you covered. We offer tickets to the biggest clubs namely Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United, and Manchester City, as well as any Premier League club featured on our tickets page. Witness the best football has to offer and become the atmosphere with EXO Tickets.

Experience the Premier League LIVE. Get your tickets now at www.exotickets.com.