Virgil van Dijk Criticizes World Cup Hydration Break Implementation

Van Dijk told the press ahead of the tournament that the two‑minute hydration pauses interrupt players’ concentration and disrupt tactical flow, especially for high‑pressing defenses. He warned that such interruptions could increase injury risk and diminish the spectacle.

FIFA introduced the breaks as a health measure, but their impact on viewers and tactics is already being debated. Van Dijk suggested lighter water bottles and in‑play distribution as alternatives.