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Virgil van Dijk reflects on Liverpool's last season and new challenges

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 1:42 PM

Last updated Aug 20, 2026

Virgil van Dijk reflects on Liverpool's last season and new challenges

Summary

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk acknowledged that last season's title defense was "unacceptable" but sees potential for improvement under new head coach Andoni Iraola. Despite finishing fifth in the Premier League, the team qualified for the Champions League. Van Dijk emphasized the need for readiness and commitment from the players, stating everyone must be 'up for the challenge.' He expressed optimism about the upcoming season and welcomed new signings, including Jeremy Jacquet and Ronald Araujo. Leoni is also nearing a return from injury. With Iraola's new style of play, Van Dijk believes the squad can compete on all fronts as they await further developments in the transfer window.

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By the Numbers

•Van Dijk calls last season's performance unacceptable.
•Liverpool qualified for the Champions League despite a fifth-place finish.
•New signings include Jeremy Jacquet and Ronald Araujo.
•Iraola's coaching aims to introduce a new style of play.
•Leoni is close to returning from an ACL injury.

Latest Updates

1:42 PMYahoo Sports — 'We don't have a point to prove to anyone' - Van Dijk

What they're saying

"
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has admitted last season's title defence was "unacceptable", but he believes the players "have an opportunity to turn it around" under new head coach Andoni Iraola. The Reds still qualified for Champions League football despite finishing fifth in the Premier League last season with 60 points. "We all know how tough it will be, but if you aren't up for the challenge then you aren't at the right place," Van Dijk said.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Liverpool Champions League Soccer

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Yahoo SportsAug 20, 2026, 1:42 PM
'We don't have a point to prove to anyone' - Van Dijk
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has admitted last season's title defence was "unacceptable", but he believes the players "have an opportunity to turn it around" under new head coach Andoni Iraola. The Reds still qualified for Champions League football despite finishing fifth in the Premier League last season with 60 points. "We all know how tough it will be, but if you aren't up for the challenge then you aren't at the right place," Van Dijk said.

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