Slot emerges as Netherlands contender after Liverpool sacking, setting up Van Dijk reunion

Arne Slot is being considered for the Netherlands manager’s role following his dismissal by Liverpool, a move that would reunite the Dutchman with his former captain Virgil van Dijk on the international stage.

Slot was sacked by Liverpool at the end of May after two seasons at Anfield. His debut campaign produced a Premier League title — a remarkable achievement following his appointment as successor to Jurgen Klopp — but a difficult second season ended with the club finishing fifth, and Slot paid the price.

The Netherlands are now searching for a new head coach after Ronald Koeman’s departure, and Sky Sports Germany report that talks with Slot have already taken place. Whether Slot is ready to move into international management remains to be seen, but the role would offer him a swift return to the dugout.

Should he take the job, Slot would be reunited with Van Dijk, who captained Liverpool under him and was vocal in his reaction to the manner of Slot’s exit from the club.

Van Dijk revealed he had already landed in Amsterdam when news of Slot’s sacking leaked publicly — before the club had informed the players directly. “I landed in Amsterdam on Saturday afternoon and it had already leaked. After that, of course, I had conversations. But the decision had already been made earlier. It is not like they are asking me how or what,” the defender told NOS.

Van Dijk also paid tribute to Slot and his assistant Sipke Hulshoff. “I have spoken with Arne and with Sipke. That is the most important thing for me. I am very grateful to them. For everything they have meant, not only to me but also to the club. I wish them nothing but success.”

He also took aim at the culture of leaking breaking news before clubs can communicate decisions to their own players. “We are now living in a world where everyone wants to be the first person to break the news. These people are the ones that benefit from it. Yeah… this is the reality.”

Slot’s record at Feyenoord, where he won the Eredivisie title before moving to Liverpool, adds further weight to his credentials for the national job. A reunion with Van Dijk could prove a compelling factor as the Netherlands weigh their options ahead of the 2026 World Cup cycle.