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The Reds star expressed optimism that his side will bounce back next season.
As the dust settles on Liverpool’s recent challenging season, Reds star defender Virgil van Dijk has admitted to being clear-eyed in his assessment of a disappointing campaign for both himself and his team.
In what could’ve served as a synopsis for the turbulent season, the final league game against Southampton embodied the team’s schizophrenic nature over the campaign: dazzling at its heights but shocking at its lowest.
During a recent interview with NOS, the 31-year-old expressed gratitude for the support from the club supporters, especially as the side made a solid go of it at the back half of the campaign, but was also honest acknowledging that the season was nowhere near their high standards:
“I have had a turbulent season and I am happy that the last three months went well. I am comfortable in my skin again and am consistent. It was a shock that it was not consistent enough as a team this year.”
“That’s also what I was used to in the last five years. It was a shock that it was not consistent enough as a team this year.
“You can only come out of it by dealing with it, inside and outside the pitch. I think I was able to do that well, with help from my wife and people at the club. I’m happy with that.”
Interestingly, the last three months of the season showed a more resilient Liverpool, thanks in part to manager Jurgen Klopp buying into the tactical trend of inverted full backs that saw Trent Alexander-Arnold move into the midfield role during possession.
As the Reds move towards the upcoming season, having a normal summer break and a well-planned preseason could be the key to rediscovering their old rhythm. Indeed, the players will be encouraged by the signing of World Cup winner and sought-after midfield recruit, Alexis Mac Allister to kick off a crucial summer rebuild.
In the end, Liverpool’s challenging season serves as a reminder of the ups and downs of professional football. And in the same way that Liverpool’s dour 2020-21 season gave way to a marvelous quadruple chase the following season, Reds supporters will hope that the disappointing campaign just past will pave the way for a new rebirth next season.
