Arne Slot Steps In: Liverpool Boss Guides Van Dijk Through Explosive Rooney Feud

Arne Slot has encouraged Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk to view criticism of his performances as praise following his public disagreement with Wayne Rooney.

Rooney openly challenged Van Dijk's captaincy during Liverpool's difficult period this season, prompting the Dutch defender to call it "lazy criticism." The two later confronted each other on television to address their dispute.

The former Manchester United star has since retracted his statements, acknowledging he may have overstepped.

Speaking to Sky Sports recently, Slot expressed his firm disagreement with anyone questioning Van Dijk's leadership qualities within Liverpool's squad.

"I've appointed captains at previous clubs where players were much younger," Slot stated. "Perhaps not entirely because they were natural leaders, but hoping it would help develop their leadership skills.

"However, with Virgil, his leadership of this team is undeniable. Walking through the AXA [training facility], during training sessions, his presence and voice make it clear he's our leader.

"His importance to this club spans many years, and I've rarely worked with captains as vocal and commanding as he is. He's been an excellent captain for me and for this club since taking the armband.

"He maintains standards at the highest level, and when he delivers a nine out of 10 performance, he still faces criticism... Other players would receive praise for such displays, yet he gets criticized.

"His form mirrors last season's level, but one or two defensive lapses this campaign immediately drew criticism. Perhaps he should view this as recognition of the exceptional standards he's established."

Rooney echoed similar sentiments regarding Van Dijk, conceding his "unfair" criticism comes with being an elite performer, urging him to channel those comments into motivation for further improvement.