Van Dijk: “It Feels Very Natural” on His Leadership Role at Liverpool | OneFootball

Van Dijk’s New Era at Liverpool: “The Signings Have to Perform”

Liverpool’s Leadership in Transition

Virgil van Dijk marked his 10th year in the Premier League with a thoughtful and revealing conversation with Sky Sports, reflecting on his journey, the shift in leadership, and the evolution of Liverpool under Arne Slot.

The conversation offers a rare window into Van Dijk’s mindset as he navigates life as Liverpool captain, following the departure of Jurgen Klopp and a wave of senior players. “This feels very natural,” Van Dijk said of his leadership role, noting that he began to embrace the responsibilities even in his second year at the club. “People are looking at you… players that will eventually join the club [are] looking at how we operate.”

Mentors, Memory and Milner

Much of Van Dijk’s approach stems from observing those who came before him. “Jordan Henderson and James Milner,” he said simply when asked who instilled Liverpool’s values in him. “I became third captain after six months… it was a massive honour.”

He described himself as “an observer” who listens and stores what he learns. “In terms of the values and what is asked to be a Liverpool player, what is asked to be representing the club… not only here in the UK but around the world, that’s very important.”

The emphasis on legacy and continuity was strong throughout the interview, highlighting how Van Dijk now carries forward traditions once upheld by others. “It feels natural for me to do so,” he said, though he admitted the role involves “a lot more things than people see.”

The Weight of Responsibility

Van Dijk spoke movingly of his connection to the team and his own expectations. “It’s like a brotherhood… I feel that responsibility for everyone,” he explained. “If I feel like anyone’s down or getting criticised, I feel responsible. It hurts me as well.”

He was keen to stress the importance of collective leadership, referencing teammates like Andy Robertson, Mohamed Salah, Alisson Becker and Joe Gomez. “They also have to do that job and they’re doing that,” he said.

Photo: IMAGO

Changes at Liverpool Under Slot

As the conversation turned to the managerial transition from Klopp to Arne Slot, Van Dijk was clear: “Last year was quite a big change… people underestimate it now a little bit because we won the league.”

Describing Klopp’s departure, he said, “Changing a manager that has been so important, not only for the team but for the club and for the city… having the impact he had on the league… it was a big change.”

Now, with Slot at the helm, Van Dijk understands what is at stake. “The signings have to perform,” he said pointedly. “They all know that. They all know when they join a club like Liverpool, the reigning champions, that they have to perform.”

He acknowledged the responsibility lies not just with new arrivals but with the existing squad to create an environment for success. “It’s down to them, but also us as a team in order to create an environment that they can do so.”

Humble Beginnings, Historic Moments

Van Dijk’s reflections stretched back to his debut at Southampton under Ronald Koeman, describing it as “an amazing time.” He recalled his debut against West Brom, where he kept a clean sheet, saying, “These things I will never forget… I felt like a little kid after the game.”

From those early moments to becoming “the first Dutch captain lifting the Premier League” and a Champions League winner, Van Dijk remains grounded. “People speak about me in a positive way, that’s always a good thing,” he said.

This interview with Sky Sports is not only a retrospective on Van Dijk’s achievements, but a sober look at the responsibilities that come with the armband. As Liverpool continue to reshape under Arne Slot, Van Dijk’s calm authority and lived experience will be vital in guiding the club through another period of transition.