If FIFA decides to sanction the Netherlands for donning the OneLove captain’s armband, the Orange will think about the best response. Virgil van Dijk will, in any case, wear the special captain’s armband on Monday.
‘That was something we agreed on. Nothing really has shifted in this regard,’ the defender clarifies in a discussion with NOS. This interview was conducted soon after the press briefing. BILD journalist Christian Faik stated at the press conference that there are fears in Germany about receiving a yellow card for sporting the band now that FIFA has designed its own band to emphasise various social themes.
OneLove captain’s armband will be worn by Van Dijk against Senegal
‘That was the first time I heard it. If this is the case, we should talk about it. “I haven’t heard anything yet,” Van Dijk stated. “If there are any punishments, such as a yellow card, we must discuss them.” That is not acceptable. I prefer not to play with a yellow card in my bag, especially if we can prevent it. We’ll see what happens. We’ll talk about it internally if we hear anything.’
During the press conference, national team manager Louis van Gaal refused to address any questions concerning the situation. “I do not really talk about politics anymore,” he explained. “I’m focused on the game, and I put a halt to all of this once we allowed the migrants to see our practice.” I’ve urged my players to stop doing that and to focus on the upcoming encounter against Senegal.’
Gijs de Jong, general secretary of the KNVB, believes Van Dijk will receive a yellow card. “I’m not really sure what the rules are. “I don’t believe you receive punishment for such kinds of breaches, if you can call them that,” he told NOS. “However, there may be additional disciplinary consequences, most likely a financial fine. I believe.”
