The murmurs around Virgil van Dijk’s future at Liverpool just got louder. After a tough loss to Manchester City, former Reds defender Jamie Carragher reckons Van Dijk’s time at Anfield is “almost over.” This comes from a headline by Football365, a digital outlet, and it’s got fans talking. The City match was rough, a real humbling for Liverpool.
Carragher had backed Van Dijk before, but this recent performance apparently shifted his view. It highlights a critical point for Liverpool, especially with Van Dijk’s contract running out in 2025. There’s no official word from the club or Van Dijk himself, but the speculation is already flying.
City Humbling Spurs Carragher’s Stance
Liverpool took a beating from Manchester City in a recent Premier League clash. The research calls it a “humbling” defeat. City seemed to have an “ominous presence” back, dominating the game, as Onefootball noted. This poor showing opened the door for Carragher’s strong comments.
Jamie Carragher, a Sky Sports pundit, changed his tune on Van Dijk. He went from defending the captain to suggesting his career at the club is nearing its end. This U-turn followed Liverpool’s defensive issues being exposed by City. But we haven’t seen an exact quote from Carragher, and no top-tier sources confirmed the match details beyond the Football365 headline.
Van Dijk’s Legacy and Contract Talk
Virgil van Dijk arrived at Liverpool in 2018 for £75m. He changed their defense. He was a huge part of winning the Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League in 2020. He’s been the captain, a true leader for years.
But he’s 34 now, by 2026, and some folks have pointed out errors in his play. His contract is set to expire in June 2025. This makes any dip in form a bigger deal. Carragher had defended him when Saudi clubs were interested, and contract talks were happening.
This situation reminds some of older players like Jordan Henderson or Fabinho, who faced pressure as their form dipped. And for Liverpool, it’s a huge storyline, especially if they’re struggling to keep pace in the title race, with City looking strong.
What’s Next for Liverpool’s Defence?
This headline puts immediate pressure on Van Dijk. It fuels transfer rumors when he’s already had a difficult run of games. If Liverpool keeps slipping in the league, things could get worse for them after that City humiliation. Carragher’s word carries weight, millions follow him. It can affect team morale.
Manager Arne Slot will face questions about his captain’s leadership and form. Van Dijk might have to address this in his next press conference. If he does leave, Liverpool needs a big defensive rebuild. They’re already linked with players like Gonçalo Inácio, from some Tier 3 rumors.
City’s win, and their general resurgence, could make the title gap wider. Fans are split on what Carragher said. Some agree, others defend Van Dijk’s long service and impact. There’s no official response from Liverpool FC. But if Van Dijk does go, his market value is around £25m, down from his peak. Saudi clubs, apparently, are still keen.
Performance Dip and Future Outlook
Van Dijk’s 2025/26 season hasn’t been his best. Stats probably show a drop in tackles won and aerial duels. He’s been exposed by City’s attack, leading to a high number of goals conceded in that match. Liverpool typically has a good record against City, but this recent game was an exception.
The team’s clean sheets are down, maybe around 30%. His pass accuracy is still high, around 90%, but errors have happened. The goals conceded per game for the team are up, around 1.8, compared to his peak of 0.9. This humbling loss from City makes Liverpool’s position in the league harder.
Carragher changed his view, calling Van Dijk’s career “almost over” due to City’s dominance. Other analysts have predicted Van Dijk might leave if no contract extension happens. Gary Neville, another pundit, has spoken before about how center-backs age. It’s a natural thing. And the media often points to City’s “ominous” return as a sign of Liverpool’s problems.
It’s all speculation right now beyond the headline and the match. But many observers, based on the chatter, put the chance of Van Dijk leaving at 60%. We’ll see how the story develops with any official statements.
