The Netherlands may have enjoyed a positive international break under new head coach Xavi Hernandez, but PSV figureheads Willy and René van de Kerkhof believe one major issue can no longer be ignored.

The Helmond brothers have called for the national team to start preparing for life after Virgil van Dijk, despite both continuing to praise the influence of the Netherlands captain.

Oranje collected two wins and two draws during the first international break under Xavi, but the PSV icons believe the defensive situation needs to be addressed with the European Championship two years away.

Speaking on the Willy & René PSV Podcast of Omroep Brabant, Willy made clear that his call for succession planning was not a criticism of Van Dijk’s career or importance to the national team.

“Virgil van Dijk may well belong among the top five internationals we’ve ever had. He has meant a great deal to the Netherlands national team,” Willy said.

However, he believes the time has come for the Netherlands to look beyond the Liverpool defender.

“I think it’s wise to look for a successor to Virgil in the Netherlands national team.”

René agreed, pointing to the increasing difficulty Van Dijk can face against some of Europe’s quickest forwards.

“If he has to play against attackers from France, they are already gone before Van Dijk has turned around. That is really starting to become a problem. At Liverpool, he is also regularly left for dead by them,” René said, as quoted by PSV Inside.

Willy also highlighted the demands of Xavi’s approach, with the new Netherlands coach wanting his side to defend further up the pitch.

“But that’s the problem with Xavi: he wants to play even further forward,” Willy said.

That tactical demand makes the question of Van Dijk’s future even more relevant, according to the former Netherlands international. He also stressed that the bigger picture must include the next major tournament.

“And you also have to look ahead to the European Championship in two years. How good will he be then?” Willy said.

Despite his concerns, Willy remains convinced that Van Dijk can continue to play an important role.

“He is a great captain and he can be very important in the dressing room,” he added.

René believes the Netherlands already has several options capable of eventually stepping into Van Dijk’s role.

“If he were to drop out now, you would also have to replace him. You have Van Hecke, Timber can take over for him, and there are more defenders who play in the English league,” he said.

The comments underline the balancing act facing Xavi. Van Dijk remains a hugely influential figure for Oranje, but with the next European Championship already on the horizon, the Netherlands may need to start preparing for a future without its long-serving defensive leader.