Particle.news
Download on the App Store
4 ARTICLES
·
3d ago

Van Dijk Admits Fitness Shortfall as Liverpool Pursue Guehi

The captain said he is rebuilding his match fitness after a curtailed pre-season, illness, a subdued Wembley display.

Image
Crystal Palace v Liverpool - 2025 FA Community Shield
LONDON, ENGLAND - Sunday, August 10, 2025: Liverpool's captain Virgil van Dijk clapping the supporters after the FA Community Shield match between Crystal Palace FC and Liverpool FC at Wembley Stadium. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

Overview

  • Virgil van Dijk confirmed on social media that he is still not fully fit and is working to regain health and match sharpness.
  • The 34-year-old had a below-par Community Shield outing, conceding a penalty, allowing two equalizers, and earning a 6.5 rating from FotMob with just two duel wins.
  • He logged only 240 minutes in pre-season—12th most in Arne Slot’s squad—and missed a friendly against Athletic Club due to illness.
  • Liverpool plan to start van Dijk alongside Ibrahima Konate in Friday’s Premier League opener against Bournemouth despite his fitness doubts.
  • The club remains keen on Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi as a defensive reinforcement, with chairman Steve Parish open to a sale to avoid a free transfer next summer.