Virgil van Dijk has launched a powerful critique of Liverpool’s poor title defence, admitting the champions are “in a mess” and questioning whether every player is taking responsibility for the team’s alarming slump.
Following a 3-0 home defeat to Nottingham Forest, Liverpool have slipped into the bottom half of the table with a negative goal difference. Van Dijk did not hide his frustration, describing the performance as unacceptable and admitting “panic kicked in” after Forest’s opener. He also acknowledged that the players are letting down manager Arne Slot.
The captain was visibly angry in the aftermath, raising his voice in the tunnel and challenging teammates to show accountability. He stressed that responsibility has to be shared across the squad, adding that basic standards—such as pressing together and winning duels—are currently not being met.
Despite major summer spending to strengthen the squad, including big-money arrivals who have yet to make an impact, Van Dijk insisted the problems go beyond new signings. He highlighted a lack of consistency, poor defensive record, and a failure to win physical battles as key issues.
Van Dijk called for unity rather than finger-pointing, urging his teammates to show character and resilience. He made it clear that giving up is not acceptable at a club like Liverpool and challenged the squad to respond immediately, with PSV and West Ham coming up next.
“We have to be men and face it,” he said, making clear that the only way forward is to work harder together and fight their way out of the situation.
