Overview
- Virgil van Dijk, who spoke on Sunday, said he wants Liverpool to be challenging for the Premier League this season and added a note of realism about strong rivals.
- He described last season as a “very unacceptable” campaign and said the club must start again with higher standards and daily work to improve results.
- Van Dijk praised new head coach Andoni Iraola’s sessions as “intense football,” highlighting tactical drills, small‑sided games and greater physical output in training.
- He said Mohamed Salah’s exit cannot realistically be replaced and that other players must step forward to take responsibility in the dressing room after several senior departures.
- Van Dijk stressed that consistency, fitness and squad depth will decide Liverpool’s season and framed the remarks as a public reset of expectations under Iraola’s methods.