Rooney criticises Van Dijk and Salah | OneFootball

Rooney Questions Leadership of Van Dijk and Salah Amid Liverpool Struggles

Liverpool’s early-season troubles have drawn criticism from one of English football’s most recognisable voices. Wayne Rooney has questioned the leadership of Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, insisting that both senior figures have failed to display the authority required to guide the Reds through their difficult spell.

Photo: IMAGO

Rooney’s Leadership Concern

Liverpool have endured a bruising start to the Premier League campaign under Arne Slot, suffering four consecutive defeats and slipping to seventh in the table—seven points adrift of leaders Arsenal. The latest setback, a 3-2 loss to Brentford, has only amplified scrutiny on the team’s mentality.

Speaking on his podcast, Rooney argued that the lack of visible leadership on the pitch is one of Liverpool’s biggest issues. “No-one has seen this coming, it’s hit them quick and it’s hit them hard,” he explained. “This is a time when the manager and the senior players need to figure it out fast. Van Dijk and Salah have signed new deals, but I don’t think they’ve really led that team this season.”

The former England captain highlighted body language as a key indicator of morale. “You can tell a lot from how players carry themselves,” he said. “They’re the top two players at Liverpool, but their demeanour hasn’t been right. If that’s off, it affects everyone else.”

Photo: IMAGO

Pressure Building on Arne Slot

Arne Slot’s arrival was seen as the beginning of a fresh era at Anfield. Yet, with Liverpool losing rhythm both defensively and in attack, questions are mounting. Van Dijk’s usually composed performances have shown signs of strain, while Salah—despite scoring three goals in the opening nine matches—has struggled to impose his influence in crucial moments.

Rooney’s comments echo a growing sentiment among supporters and pundits that leadership voids can be as damaging as tactical errors. The Dutch manager’s challenge now is to reignite the sense of unity and fight that defined Liverpool under his predecessor.

Arsenal’s Rise Offers Sharp Contrast

Rooney contrasted Liverpool’s faltering form with Arsenal’s confident start. The Gunners, led by Mikel Arteta, have found consistency and resilience after years of near-misses. Four straight wins and three consecutive clean sheets have placed them in a commanding position, something Rooney believes Liverpool’s leaders should observe closely.

“Arsenal look ready to go one better this year,” Rooney said. “They’ve had setbacks, but they’ve learned from them. That’s what leadership looks like—turning frustration into fuel.”

Van Dijk and Salah Still Central to Liverpool’s Recovery

Despite the criticism, both Van Dijk and Salah remain integral to Liverpool’s future. The Dutch captain’s experience and presence continue to anchor the dressing room, while Salah’s relentless work ethic and goal threat are crucial to any revival. Slot’s challenge is to channel their influence positively—transforming frustration into leadership.

Liverpool’s next fixtures offer little margin for error, and the response of their senior players could well define their season. Rooney’s remarks may sting, but they reflect a wider truth: when a club with Liverpool’s expectations falters, its biggest figures are expected to lead from the front.