Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has revealed that he called a players’ meeting in the aftermath of the team’s 2–1 home defeat to Manchester United, though he insists it was not a “crisis” summit.
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The loss at Anfield last Sunday marked Liverpool’s fourth consecutive defeat, a worrying slump for a side that had started the season in strong form. The result left the Reds joint third in the Premier League, four points adrift of leaders Arsenal, sparking concerns among supporters about their sudden dip in performance.
Van Dijk: “It wasn’t a crisis meeting”
Speaking to reporters ahead of Liverpool’s Champions League fixture in Germany, Van Dijk explained that the squad gathered at the AXA Training Centre in Kirkby on Monday to address the team’s form and morale.
“On Monday, everyone was sad because we lost to United at home,” the Dutch defender said. “We haven’t lost many games at Anfield during my time at Liverpool. It was tough under the circumstances, so on Monday we came together — but it wasn’t a crisis meeting. We all know how things can change. We’re only in October.”
The Liverpool captain clarified that while emotions were understandably low, the intent was to encourage open dialogue and collective accountability, not panic.
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“Obviously, we also had a proper debrief with the manager, but we had a separate one as players,” Van Dijk continued. “I wanted to say some things. It’s not something I do after every game. Let’s keep it that way.”
Slot’s Influence and the Players’ Response
Manager Arne Slot, who took charge earlier this season, reportedly supported Van Dijk’s initiative. Sources within the club have indicated that Slot encourages senior players to take leadership roles in maintaining the team’s unity and focus.
Liverpool’s recent poor run — which included defeats to Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Manchester United — had raised questions about confidence and tactical cohesion. However, Slot’s men responded emphatically just days later.
Reds End Losing Run with 5–1 Win in Frankfurt
On Wednesday night, Liverpool produced a commanding 5–1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League, ending a month-long winless streak and restoring confidence within the camp.
Slot made several changes to his starting lineup, notably resting Mohamed Salah, while giving chances to Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz. The decision paid off handsomely as Liverpool delivered a ruthless attacking performance.
Goals from Ekitike, Van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Cody Gakpo sealed a morale-boosting win at Deutsche Bank Park, reaffirming Liverpool’s attacking potential and mental resilience.
“The only way to get out of a situation like that is to stay together,” Van Dijk said after the match. “Keep your mind on the task ahead, try to improve, keep the confidence, embrace the moment. Those are all things easier said than done, but if you want to get out of it, you have to do it.”
Van Dijk: “We Have to Stay Focused on Ourselves”
The Dutchman also addressed the growing external scrutiny surrounding Liverpool’s recent performances, urging teammates to tune out the “noise” and focus on internal progress.
“We live in a world now where there is always noise, always something to be said, always someone who knows better,” he said. “We have to stay focused on ourselves. Before my meeting, yes, the mood was low — but after my meeting, everyone was happy!”
Van Dijk’s words appear to have resonated with his teammates, as Liverpool’s performance in Frankfurt displayed the cohesion and energy that had been missing in previous weeks.
Injury Concerns for Frimpong and Isak
Despite the resounding victory, Liverpool’s night was not without concern. Both Jeremie Frimpong and Alexander Isak were forced off with injuries, adding fresh worries for Slot ahead of the weekend’s domestic fixtures.
Frimpong, who has been a dynamic presence on the right flank, suffered a hamstring problem in the first half and was replaced early. Meanwhile, Isak — who started up front in Salah’s absence — was withdrawn at halftime after feeling discomfort in his groin.
Slot is expected to provide updates on both players’ conditions later this week, with initial reports suggesting the club will assess their availability ahead of Saturday’s Premier League trip to Brentford.
Next Up: Brentford Away
Liverpool now turn their attention to the league, where they will aim to carry their European momentum into domestic competition. The Reds face Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium on Saturday at 20:00 BST, hoping to reignite their title challenge and close the gap on leaders Arsenal.
With morale seemingly restored and Van Dijk’s leadership setting the tone, Liverpool’s emphatic response in Germany could mark the beginning of a much-needed turnaround in form.
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