Virgil van Dijk believes the setbacks of last season can serve as motivation for Liverpool to push for trophies in 2025.
The Reds endured a disappointing end to their previous campaign, finishing third in the Premier League after falling out of contention in the title race and exiting the Europa League at the quarter-final stage.
This term, however, Liverpool are in a much stronger position. They currently lead the Premier League by six points and boast a perfect record in the Champions League.
Van Dijk spoke of the team’s calm and focused approach, crediting their work ethic and collective mindset as they continue to compete on multiple fronts under Arne Slot.
“I think you have to learn from difficult moments and moments that don’t go your way,” he said following Liverpool’s 2-1 victory over Lille.
“Most of the guys in the dressing room now have experienced last year and that should make you better, make you aware of how to deal with certain situations and circumstances, and you should be better equipped. Let’s see.
Securing our spot in the last 16 ✅✨ pic.twitter.com/lNQNouysss
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) January 21, 2025
“At the moment I am looking at our team and we are very calm, we are working our socks off each and every day, each and every game, and we need everyone fit, healthy and in form and that’s the aim.
“Going into every game with the mentality it is game-by-game. That’s how it’s always been the case. It’s a nice ride, I think you should enjoy it as well and I will definitely do it.
Liverpool’s performances have not gone unnoticed. Brentford head coach Thomas Frank recently described the Reds as the “best team in the world,” a claim backed up by Lille striker Jonathan David.
For Van Dijk, such praise is a testament to the team’s efforts. “I think it sort of gives confirmation we are on the right track,” he added.
“We work in every game so hard to be a very difficult team to beat.
“When other managers are giving you praise for not only the way you attack but defend as well as a group and the bodies you get back behind the ball that is only a good sign and credit to all the hard work each and everyone has been putting in. That’s the only thing we should take from it and other than that it is just focussing on doing it and staying consistent.”
