June 25, 2025
World
World
THE HAGUE, June 25 — U.S. President Donald Trump claimed today that missile strikes over the weekend caused severe damage to Iranian nuclear sites, although he admitted that the intelligence available was inconclusive.
LIVERPOOL, April 18 — Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has signed a new two-year contract with the club, putting an end to months of speculation about his future. The announcement comes just a week after Mohamed Salah extended his deal, and as the Reds edge closer to a potential Premier League title under new manager Arne Slot.
“I’m very happy and very proud,” said Van Dijk, whose previous contract, like Salah’s, was set to expire at the end of the season. “There are so many emotions going through my mind. It’s a feeling of pride and joy. Extending my journey here for another two years is incredible — I’m just so happy.”
With Salah and Van Dijk now secured, focus turns to Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose contract is also set to expire at the end of the season. The England international, recently back in training after a month-long injury, has been heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid.
Van Dijk, 33, has made 314 appearances and scored 27 goals since arriving from Southampton in 2018 for a then-world-record £75 million for a defender. His time at Liverpool has been decorated with silverware, including the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, two League Cups, UEFA Super Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup — all under Jurgen Klopp.
Last month, Van Dijk admitted he was uncertain about his future but later hinted at a renewal. Rumours of a potential move to Paris Saint-Germain had circulated, but Van Dijk reaffirmed his commitment to Liverpool.
“It was always Liverpool,” he said. “That was always the plan. There was no doubt — this is the place for me and my family. Someone recently called me an adopted Scouser — I’m really proud of that.”
Van Dijk, who previously played for Celtic and Southampton, took over as club captain in 2023 following Jordan Henderson’s departure. He’s now poised to help Liverpool potentially secure their 20th league title, which would see them match Manchester United’s record. With just six games to go, the Reds hold a commanding 13-point lead over Arsenal and could clinch the title as early as this weekend. — AFP
