After a difficult season, Virgil van Dijk has recovered to become Liverpool’s captain, and the Dutchman is “proud” to guide his team ahead.
Van Dijk admitted he wasn’t at his best last season, which drew harsh criticism, especially from those in the Netherlands.
But as the season came to an end and the new one began, the center back appeared to have found his form again, and he now serves as captain.
This season marks a change of the guard for Liverpool following the summer’s losses of Fabinho, Roberto Firmino, James Milner, Jordan Henderson, and his vice-captain.
In terms of Fabinho and Roberto Firmino, this season marks a change in the leadership.
In his native Netherlands, Van Dijk told Tubantia that Liverpool was in a transitional stage.
Naturally, it’s comforting to know that the manager still sees me as a member of Liverpool 2.0, the reconstituted team.
“During the initial weeks of preparation, we communicated a lot. That exuded assurance. Without a doubt, thanks to that captaincy.
Trent Alexander-Arnold, another candidate for the position, was also chosen vice-captain, but Van Dijk was the clear favorite.
Given the difficulty he encountered in his previous outing, there had been doubts about his future as a starter, and the 32-year-old was conscious of his need to get better.
He said, “I have talked to a number of folks from my neighborhood in recent months.
“My wife is really crucial to this, but I also talk to a lot of people at the club.
“As a football player, you must first be self-critical and always ask how you can improve.
Van Dijk expressed his satisfaction at accepting the “big responsibility” of guiding Liverpool into a new era during his interview.
With the exception of those Nations League games against the Dutch squad, I could already see improvement at the close of the previous season.
Van Dijk is correct to note his recent development and to say that, despite receiving a “atypical” red card, he has “started the season well.”
“I think it went really well against Chelsea and Bournemouth,” he said.
“The start was good despite the red card. I am really eager to continue”.
