Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk says former players turned pundits have a “duty of responsibility” toward the next generation.
Speaking with Sky Sports’ Gary Neville, Van Dijk warned that some opinions cross into clickbait. He said commentators often provoke reactions without considering the mental impact on players.
“For me, I can handle it, but I worry about the next generation,” Van Dijk told Neville.
Van Dijk has spoken out before
This season, Van Dijk repeatedly criticized certain pundit remarks. In November, he called Wayne Rooney’s claim that Liverpool lacked leadership “lazy criticism.”
He revisited the topic days later while appearing pitchside with Rooney on Amazon Prime after Liverpool’s 1-0 Champions League win against Real Madrid.
Pundits’ comments attracted attention again last month when former Manchester United players Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt discussed current defender Lisandro Martinez.
Before the Manchester derby at Old Trafford, Butt said City striker Erling Haaland would treat Martinez like a “little toddler.” Scholes claimed Haaland would “throw him in the net” after scoring.
Martinez replied: pundits “can talk on television,” but “no one says anything” to players face-to-face.
The responsibility of former top players
“I feel ex-top players must protect the new generation,” Van Dijk said. He added that criticism is natural and essential for football, but it can also cross a dangerous line.
“Some criticism turns into clickbait to provoke reactions,” Van Dijk explained. “It often ignores how young players feel mentally, especially those constantly on social media.”
He noted young athletes notice positive praise after strong performances but face bullying or harsh criticism after weaker games. “It can really affect you,” he said. “I’ve seen it happen before and even now.”
Social media makes it harder
With social media growing, Van Dijk warned the problem will worsen. “Platforms now thrive on clickbait and sensational headlines, and everyone is watching constantly,” he said.
He emphasized that former professionals, who experienced similar pressures, have a responsibility to shield younger players. “They should consider protecting them from harmful criticism,” Van Dijk concluded.
