A brief post-match exchange between Virgil van Dijk and Alexander Isak after last season’s EFL Cup final set social media alight. Now that Isak has officially joined Liverpool, the Dutch defender has finally spoken about it—only to fuel more curiosity by promising the real story will only come out in a couple of years.
It wasn’t a stunning goal or a piece of skill that went viral after last season’s EFL Cup final—it was something much more ordinary. As the final whistle blew, Virgil van Dijk walked over to Newcastle striker Alexander Isak and the two exchanged a few quiet words. Newcastle had just beaten Liverpool to end a 70-year trophy drought, while Van Dijk and his teammates left the pitch in disappointment. Yet that small moment became the biggest talking point.
Television cameras and fans in the stands caught the brief chat, with both players sharing a smile. Just a few seconds of footage was enough to spark countless theories on social media: was it a compliment, a promise to meet again, or even a hint that Isak might one day move to Anfield?
Fast forward a year, and Liverpool’s rollercoaster journey has led to a blockbuster transfer: on the final day of the 2025 summer window, Isak officially arrived at Anfield. The record-breaking deal not only shook English football but also marked a pivotal step in Arne Slot’s rebuilding project. With Isak now a Red, the old “mystery” between Van Dijk and him resurfaced.
Asked about that viral moment, Van Dijk laughed: “I won’t say anything! Maybe in two or three years I’ll tell you. For now, no. I don’t even remember!” His playful, evasive answer only added fuel to the speculation. Clearly, it wasn’t just a throwaway line. The very fact that Van Dijk set a timeline suggests it was something significant, special enough to keep under wraps.
Setting aside the secrecy, Van Dijk opened up about the transfer itself. He admitted that the long negotiations created stress for everyone involved: “When talks drag on, a lot goes on behind the scenes. Not just for me, but the whole team wanted it done quickly. Now it’s finished, Isak is here, part of the Liverpool family.”
For Liverpool, Isak represents far more than just another big signing. The Swedish striker is expected to become a cornerstone of the club’s new era. Van Dijk emphasized: “The important thing is for him to reach full fitness as soon as possible. We need his goals, assists, and link-up play. With Hugo Ekitike also here, the competition will push both of them and take us to another level.”
Meanwhile, fans have had fun with Van Dijk’s teasing. Some joked that he’s turning this into a “multi-season series” that could one day become legendary in Liverpool’s locker room. Others believe Van Dijk might have known back then that Isak would end up at Anfield and hinted at it with a knowing remark.
As for Isak, he is gradually settling into his new surroundings. The record fee brings enormous pressure, but also huge expectations from the board, manager, and supporters. His debut could come as early as midweek against Atletico Madrid, a game eagerly anticipated by the Kop.
On a psychological level, the warm welcome from Van Dijk—Liverpool’s defensive leader and a key voice in the dressing room—will be a big boost for Isak. A positive atmosphere behind the scenes often lays the foundation for success on the pitch.
Once again, Van Dijk has shown his leadership: tough on the field but thoughtful in building unity. His humor and discretion have turned a small anecdote into a story that connects players and fans alike.
And perhaps, in two or three years, when Van Dijk finally shares the secret, it won’t just be about the surprise—it will be a moment tied to the shared journey of him and Isak at Liverpool. That’s the beauty of football: even the smallest secrets can become part of history and unforgettable memories.