Van Dijk was missing against Germany: Who replaces the captain?

Van Dijk was missing against Germany: Who replaces the captain?

München, Deutschland - in football, emotions are often very intense, and right now the situation around Virgil van Dijk takes an unexpected turn. The Dutch international had to accept a red card in the past game against Hungary, which took place in the Nations League and will therefore be missing in the upcoming decisive match against the German team. This caused resentment not only with the fans, but also with his trainer Ronald Koeman.

Koeman commented on the situation on Dutch television and explained: "This is frustrating. I don't understand either. I think the captain can protest with the referee." Van Dijk had emphasized the red card after a male foul of a Hungarian player, Attila Fiola. Ironically, he received a second yellow card even within a very short time and had to leave the field.

The consequences for the Dutch team

To fill the gap that Van Dijk leaves, Denzel Dumfries will create the captain's armband, according to Koeman. Dumfries, who plays for Inter Milan, was able to at least save the Netherlands in this game by achieving the equalization shortly after the dismissal. The Netherlands are currently behind Germany in the National League group, which leads the table. Koeman still shows itself optimistic and adds: "The game will be even more fun against Germany."

Despite the tense situation, van Dijk initially communicated to stay with the team, but later withdrew this statement. "I would have loved to support the team," he said, "but I hinted at that I would like to go home". This was obviously due to the high burden of the numerous games with both the national team and with his Liverpool club.

The entire situation not only brings sporty challenges, but also raises questions about decision -making and the rules of the game. It remains to be seen how things will develop for the Netherlands, especially with regard to the upcoming match against the German selection, which is of great importance for both teams.

For more information about the background of this statute regarding the lock of van Dijk, can be read the article on faz.net .