Van Dijk stresses Liverpool ‘won’t give up whatsoever’ | OneFootball

Van Dijk calls for Liverpool to rediscover consistency after Man City setback

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk admitted his side must rediscover their rhythm and consistency after suffering a bruising 3-0 defeat to Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. Goals from Erling Haaland, Nico Gonzalez and Jeremy Doku condemned Arne Slot’s team to one of their heaviest losses of the season, as the champions showed their authority in clinical fashion.

Mamardashvili’s early penalty save from Haaland offered a glimpse of hope, but City’s relentless pressure eventually told. Van Dijk thought he had equalised with a powerful header before VAR ruled it out for offside against Andy Robertson — a moment that summed up a frustrating afternoon for the Reds.

Photo: IMAGO

Frustration over key moments

Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Van Dijk refused to dwell on the controversial VAR decision but acknowledged the impact such moments can have on momentum.

“In football there are key decisions,” he said. “The officials make them and we have to deal with it on the pitch. There’s no point in discussing it too much — the reality is we lost 3-0 and that’s a big blow.”

Liverpool struggled to gain control in midfield during the first half, with City’s tactical fluidity proving decisive. Bernardo Silva repeatedly dropped deep to create overloads, allowing City to dictate possession and stretch Liverpool’s shape. “It was difficult for our front guys to press effectively,” Van Dijk explained. “They were more comfortable on the ball, especially with Bernardo dropping in. Doku had a fantastic game too, which made it tough for Conor Bradley at times, but I didn’t think we were in massive trouble overall.”

Slot’s search for control

The defeat has raised questions about Slot’s tactical approach in big away fixtures. While his side have impressed in spells this season, maintaining intensity against elite opposition remains a challenge. Van Dijk pointed to small margins and decision-making as decisive factors.

“We could’ve done better in possession,” he said. “The penalty and the decisions shifted the momentum to their side. In the second half we found a bit more rhythm with the ball, but our pressing wasn’t coordinated enough. As a team, we have to improve in that area.”

Slot echoed similar sentiments post-match, stressing that Liverpool’s transitions and positional play must become sharper to match City’s composure. Both coach and captain appear aligned on one message — consistency will define their campaign.

Focus on long-term fight

Despite the disappointment, Van Dijk was clear that Liverpool must not lose focus. “Losing always hurts, especially 3-0,” he said. “Now we go to our national teams, stay fit and come back ready for the next run. You have to keep going. It sounds boring, but it’s what we have to do.”

The Dutchman rejected any notion of panic, instead calling for patience and resilience. “It’s November,” he reminded. “There’s a long season ahead and a big fight waiting for us. We’re not giving up. We just need to find that consistency again — that’s what makes the difference.”

Liverpool’s defeat to Man City highlighted the gulf in execution that still exists between the two clubs, but also reinforced the leadership of Van Dijk, who continues to embody the team’s determination to recover. As the international break arrives, Slot’s focus will turn to ensuring Liverpool return sharper, more composed, and ready to reassert themselves in the title race.