Van Dijk Reveals His 'Obvious' Pick to Lead Liverpool After His Departure

Virgil van Dijk thinks Dominik Szoboszlai possesses the attributes required to serve as Liverpool's future captain, a statement that emerges during ongoing transfer rumors linking him with Real Madrid.

Szoboszlai has emerged as Liverpool's standout and most reliable performer this season during what has been a challenging campaign that saw a significant decline from the 2024–25 Premier League title race. Van Dijk has held the captain's role since 2023, but the Dutch defender's advancing years suggest selecting his successor may not be far off.

Van Dijk emphasized that the choice rests solely with manager Arne Slot, stopping short of explicitly endorsing Szoboszlai as his preferred successor, though he expressed his backing when questioned about the Hungarian midfielder.

"Clearly [Szoboszlai] has performed exceptionally well," the current captain commented. "[He is] also a player who I believe can take another leap forward in terms of becoming a leader for this squad.

"It begins with setting an example through your actions, and that's exactly what he has demonstrated throughout this season. But there's also everything else that comes with it; there's still room for development and I view that as positive, so hopefully he will remain crucial for Liverpool in the coming years."

Additional Incentive for Szoboszlai to Stay at Liverpool

Additional Incentive for Szoboszlai to Stay at Liverpool

Szoboszlai's representative recently confirmed that both he and his player have no plans to explore options beyond Liverpool, despite reports suggesting Real Madrid are monitoring the situation.

However, the deal he penned when joining from RB Leipzig nearly three years ago is nearing its final two seasons, the period when contract renewal discussions typically commence.

At 25 years old, Szoboszlai's upcoming contract, whether at Liverpool or elsewhere, will prove pivotal in his career as it determines where he'll spend his prime years. While the Reds wouldn't necessarily include the captaincy as part of renewal negotiations, knowing such an opportunity exists could influence the player's decision to continue his journey at Anfield.

Szoboszlai has extensive experience leading teams on the field. He has served as Hungary's national team captain since November 2022, having just turned 22 at the time, and first donned the armband internationally at U17 level.

Candidates to Become Liverpool's Next Captain

Candidates to Become Liverpool's Next Captain

Beyond Szoboszlai, there aren't many clear-cut candidates to replace Van Dijk, with current vice-captain Andy Robertson unlikely to remain beyond his long-serving colleague.

Alisson Becker's deal expires simultaneously with Van Dijk's in 2027, though the Brazilian goalkeeper could feasibly continue longer given he's just over a year younger and plays a position typically associated with extended careers.

Alexis Mac Allister is at a comparable career stage to Szoboszlai and serves as Liverpool's orchestrator in midfield, but doesn't possess the same leadership background. Meanwhile, Curtis Jones distinguishes himself as the only Scouser among the regular first-team players.

Liverpool Captains During the Premier League Era

Liverpool Captains During the Premier League Era