Wayne Rooney has continued to voice his criticism of Virgil van Dijk, asserting that the Liverpool captain's performance this season has been a factor in the team's recent difficulties. This ongoing feud took a public turn in November, during a post-match discussion aired on Prime Video, when Van Dijk replied to Rooney's comments by asserting that the critique was 'over the top.' Despite this, Rooney has not backed down from his stance, prompting further commentary on the impact of Van Dijk's form on Liverpool's results.

The exchange highlights the tensions and competitive spirit inherent in the relationship between former players and current stars, particularly in the high-stakes atmosphere of Premier League football. Following their initial confrontation, Van Dijk has expressed his view that established players should consider the mental health implications of their comments toward younger athletes, especially in the context of social media. This conversation underscores a broader concern within sports regarding the responsibilities of public figures to their audience and players.

In the wake of this feud, discussions have also surfaced surrounding other player critiques, notably involving Manchester United's Lisandro Martinez responding to figures like Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt. As the debate continues, it reflects a developing narrative around how former athletes engage with contemporary issues in football and the evolving expectations placed on them by both fans and those currently in the sport.