Van Dijk has given fans reason for optimism after discussing Isak Liverpool ambitions and how ready he believes the squad is for everything ahead.
The captain sounded confident at his pre-match press conference ahead of Liverpool’s Champions League opener against Atletico Madrid.
When asked on what it is like to face Atletico, he responded:
“Unfortunately, the last time we did it here we lost. It was a painful one at the time as well, obviously we got knocked out.
“They maybe didn’t have the best start [to the season] that they would love to in terms of in the league but I know that this is the start of their campaign as well and they would love to impress as quickly as possible as well. So, we have to be ready. We had a good session today and now it’s time to prepare in your own way at home and be ready for tomorrow.”
He praised Isak’s early training impressions, underlined the need to maintain consistency and signalled that the team have set their sights high this season.
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Van Dijk’s impressions of Isak and what he brings to the group
Van Dijk described Isak’s beginning at Liverpool as “very good. Very eager,” praising his quality from the first session on and his off-pitch attitude.
Van Dijk emphasised the importance of the new striker adapting quickly to the team’s press, set-pieces and physical demands.
He said that Isak has to get fit fast and understand teammates’ movements, describing it as “a good week for him.”
The captain stressed that making an impact won’t always mean full games immediately — fitness and match sharpness play a big role.
When asked whether Liverpool are equipped to challenge on all fronts this term, Van Dijk didn’t shy away.
“Well, hopefully we are. We have to stay fit, that’s the main thing. I think last year it shows if you don’t have many injuries [and have] a lot of players it can help – you can rotate, you can change the game in certain ways and that’s the aim again this season: find consistency, find your best form.
“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.”
He made it clear the squad have the depth, the attitude, and the expectation to contend.
But he also underlined that staying fit and consistent will decide how far they go.
He acknowledged that replacing quality players is never easy, underscoring that whilst Isak and others have joined, they must earn their places on merit.
He added that playing together, building chemistry and showing up in training matter just as much as performances on matchday.
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