Virgil van Dijk: We must respond after an unacceptable season

20 August 2026 — Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has called for a strong response from the squad after a campaign he described as unacceptable, as the club begins a new era under manager Andoni Iraola.

Van Dijk said the team must move on from last season’s disappointment and use the new opportunity to rebuild confidence and results following a fifth-place finish in the Premier League.

“For me as a Liverpool player, last season was absolutely unacceptable,” the captain said. “We leave it behind. We have a chance to put things right and I hope we take it. We know how hard it will be, but if we’re not prepared to accept the challenge, then we don’t belong at this club. I see the desire in everyone and we look forward to the chance to prove ourselves,” Van Dijk said on the club’s website and added.

Targeting recovery under Iraola

Van Dijk stressed the squad must show commitment to the badge and the history of the club as they aim to climb well above last season’s league position. “We must show that we care, that we want to play for the badge. We want to show we are very aware of what a privilege it is to play for Liverpool,” he continued.

He also pointed to the progress Iraola achieved at Bournemouth and set out the simple formula he believes can restore results: hard work, belief, quality and keeping key players fit. “Last year Bournemouth played great football under Iraola’s leadership. If we work, believe, show our quality and stay injury-free, we will win many games and recover. That is our aim and we will strive for it, no matter how hard it is,” the defender concluded.

Photo: press material from the event