Virgil van Dijk has come under fire for his post-match remarks about Everton following Liverpool’s dramatic late setback in the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park. Many fans labeled the Dutch defender as “salty” after his comments, which appeared to downplay Everton’s achievement in securing a last-gasp draw.
Liverpool seemed to be heading for all three points when Mohamed Salah put them ahead 2-1 in the 73rd minute, scoring his 22nd Premier League goal of the season. Despite trailing, Everton struggled to mount a response and break through Liverpool’s defense. However, in the closing moments of the match, Everton’s captain, James Tarkowski, delivered a stunning volley past Alisson Becker, sparking wild celebrations among the home supporters.
The dramatic goal led to a prolonged VAR review, as officials examined a potential offside as well as a possible foul by Beto on Ibrahima Konate. After thorough scrutiny, the goal was upheld, allowing Everton to secure a last-second draw and deny Liverpool victory.
Emotions ran high at the final whistle, with tensions spilling over when Abdoulaye Doucoure appeared to taunt Liverpool’s traveling supporters. This provoked a reaction from Curtis Jones, who shoved the Everton midfielder, triggering a heated scuffle between both sets of players. The incident resulted in red cards for both Doucoure and Jones. Additionally, Liverpool’s manager, Arne Slot, and his assistant, Sipke Hulshoff, were also sent off due to their actions toward referee Michael Oliver.
Since Slot was unavailable for post-match interviews due to his dismissal, Van Dijk took on the responsibility of speaking to TNT Sports. The center-back did not hold back in his criticism of Oliver, accusing the referee of losing control of the match. He also expressed frustration over Everton’s equalizing goal, arguing that it had been scored beyond the allotted stoppage time.
One particular comment from Van Dijk attracted significant attention. He referred to the Merseyside derby as Everton’s “cup final,” implying that the Toffees treated the fixture with extra significance compared to other matches.
“This is their cup final, and they would do everything possible to make it difficult for us. It’s a big boost for them but a disappointment for us,” Van Dijk stated, commenting on Everton’s celebrations and determination.
His remarks sparked a mixed reaction on social media, with some fans criticizing him for being unsportsmanlike. One user on X remarked, “Terrible post-match interview from Van Dijk. He comes across as petulant and a sore loser. You have to be gracious whether you win, lose, or draw!”
Another wrote, “Loooooollll Van Dijk is so salty. ‘This is their cup final’—he’s not wrong, but still.”
A third person commented, “Wow, serious salt from Van Dijk in that interview,” while another added, “This interview is embarrassing. He is never gracious.”
After failing to win in their last two games, Liverpool will aim to return to winning ways when they face Wolves at Anfield on Sunday.
