Virgil van Dijk Confident Ahead of Liverpool's Champions League Clash with Atletico Madrid
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has expressed confidence and focus ahead of the Champions League opener against Atletico Madrid at Anfield. The defender addressed the media, highlighting the team's readiness, the impact of new signing Alexander Isak, and the challenge posed by Diego Simeone's side.
Van Dijk on Alexander Isak and Liverpool's Attacking Options
Alexander Isak, Liverpool's recent signing, has already impressed in training. Van Dijk praised the striker's initial impact, emphasizing the importance of his arrival as a necessary addition to the squad following key departures. He also stressed that external pressures and transfer fees are irrelevant within the team.
“Very good. Very eager, obviously the quality has been shown already from the first session… it’s been a good week for him. Let’s see tomorrow,” Van Dijk explained, adding that Isak needs to "work hard, enjoy being the No.9 for Liverpool and be important for the group with your goals, assists, link-up play, help others – and that’s the only thing you have influence on.”
Champions League Ambitions and Premier League Momentum
Liverpool has started the Premier League season strongly, with four wins from four matches. This momentum is crucial as they enter the Champions League. Van Dijk acknowledged that maintaining fitness and consistency will be key to competing across all competitions. Winning European glory remains a major motivation for him personally.
“Well, hopefully we are. We have to stay fit, that’s the main thing… it’s far too easy to say it than to actually do it but that’s the responsibility that we all have as players in order to be at our best,” said Van Dijk. He added, “Obviously when I signed my deal I would hope to win everything that I’m going to participate in… I’m confident that we can show Europe that we are a fantastic team but you have to work for it.”
The Challenge of Atletico Madrid at Anfield
Facing Atletico Madrid, managed by Diego Simeone, is considered one of the toughest tests in European football. Van Dijk acknowledged past disappointments against them at Anfield but also expressed admiration for their resilience and tactical strength. He emphasized the importance of adapting to their style of play.
“It’s a team that works so hard, it’s a world-class manager… they are just a very difficult team to beat and they will never give up – that’s the mentality they have,” stated Van Dijk. He welcomes the tactical variety Atletico brings and the need to adapt. “No matter what you are going to face you have to make sure that you are at your best together with your partner… it’s nice because you have to adapt at times as well. That’s a good thing and I really enjoy it.”
Isak's Integration into the Liverpool Squad
Van Dijk hopes that Alexander Isak will quickly contribute to the team. The striker is building up his fitness, aiming for a potential debut against Atletico Madrid. Isak missed part of pre-season during the transfer, and did not play in the win against Burnley.
"Obviously it was a very difficult time, negotiations go on behind the scenes and the whole team and everyone connected to the club was very pleased that the deal got done," Van Dijk said. "Now he is here, he's part of the family." He added, "It is time for him to be as fit as he can as quickly as possible, and be important for us with goals, with assists, with link-up play and with what Hugo [Ekitike] has already been showing and doing, pushing each other and bringing us to the next level."