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Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has said he will be a part of the club’s transition after manager Jürgen Klopp leaves in the summer.
Klopp confirmed his departure in January, with speculation immediately surfacing around Van Dijk’s long-term future at the club.
The 32-year-old’s contract runs out at the end of next season, but he has said he intends to be part of the changing of the guard at Liverpool, with Feyenoord coach Arne Slot set to be appointed as Klopp’s replacement.
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“There will be a big transition and I am part of that,” Van Dijk said.
“I think the club is very much busy with who is going to be the new manager and that is the main focus. Like I said I am very happy here, I love the club and you can see that as well.
“It’s a big part of my life already, and that is all I can say. There will be a lot of changes happening and, I wouldn’t say scary is the right word, but it is quite interesting and exciting what will happen now.”
Klopp has two games left as Liverpool manager, against Aston Villa next week, before Wolves visit Anfield on the final day of the season.
Van Dijk, who was signed by Klopp for £75 million ($94m) in January 2018, admitted it will be an emotional final few days under the German.
“I am really proud I played for him, fought for the badge and him and count the success we had over the years as well,” Van Dijk said.
“It will be emotional on the last day but it is a part of life sometimes. Many things are happening behind the scenes but we focus on matchdays and that is our duty, our job and we want to perform for the last six points.”