Wayne Rooney has responded to recent comments from Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk, who raised concerns about the nature of criticism from pundits and former players.
Liverpool captain Van Dijk recently hit out at pundits and former pros, claiming some criticism “crosses the line” and expressing concern about how younger players cope with the pressure in the social media age.
The Dutch defender, who previously clashed with Rooney earlier this season following criticism of his performances, suggested ex-players have a responsibility to protect the next generation.
“For me personally, I can deal with it, but I’m a bit worried for the next generation,” Van Dijk said. “I feel like ex-top players have a responsibility to the new generation.
“Criticism is absolutely normal and part of the game, and I think it should stay that way. But sometimes criticism also goes into being clickbait, saying things to provoke without thinking about the repercussions for the mental side of players, especially the younger generation, who are constantly on social media.”
Rooney has now addressed those comments, offering his perspective on the role of pundits and the realities of top-level football.
“I think Virgil (Van Dijk) and other top players now need to remember that we were once players too. This is not something new,” he said on Footy Accumulators No Tippy Tappy Football podcast, in partnership with BOYLE Sports.
“This happens, and I’m sure he’ll realise that when he stops playing. Especially now, with the mental health side of things, Virgil van Dijk will know himself if he’s had a good game or a bad game.
“No one’s having personal attacks on players. It’s an opinion on what you see, and I’ve been through that a lot more than what he has been through.”
Rooney also pointed to the broader realities of modern football, where players operate in a highly commercial and heavily scrutinised environment.
“That’s part of football. You see players now – they get the benefit of all the commercial things they do and earn a lot of money from that, so you need to understand that pundits have their opinions.
“Sometimes pundits can go over the top, but as a player, you’ve got to expect you’re going to get judged on performances.”
Despite the disagreement, Rooney was also keen to acknowledge Van Dijk’s quality – particularly in Liverpool’s recent clash with Manchester City.
“I thought he was brilliant in the game against City. He really marshalled Erling Haaland well. But for many games this season, he hasn’t been at his level.
“Whether that’s because he’s getting a little bit older, he’s played a lot of games – he’s been one of the best centre-backs in the world over recent years, but he hasn’t had the best of seasons, which shows Liverpool’s position in the table.”
The exchange reflects an ongoing conversation within the game about where analysis ends, and responsibility begins, as players and pundits continue to navigate football’s increasingly intense spotlight.
