Where is Van Dijk in Liverpool's crisis?

Van Dijk was criticized. Photo: Reuters .

Liverpool just suffered a 1-2 defeat to Manchester United at Anfield in round 8 of the Premier League in the early morning of October 20, ending a 400-day unbeaten streak at home in the domestic league.

The focus of criticism has again been on Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk. Commenting on Sky Sports , former MU midfielder Roy Keane frankly said that Van Dijk needs to review himself and take responsibility for his poor performance.

Keane analyzed: "When you are a top centre-back, just signed a big contract, but the team keeps conceding goals, you have to ask yourself what you are doing. Van Dijk is a leader, he needs to have a voice, give stability to the defense, instead of letting things go like that."

The situation where Van Dijk collided with his teammate Alexis Mac Allister in the first minute became a turning point. Just a few seconds later, Bryan Mbeumo seized the opportunity to score the opening goal for MU, setting the stage for the "Red Devils" victory at Anfield.

Van Dijk couldn't stop Mbeumo from scoring. Photo: Reuters .

Keane continued to emphasize: "We praise MU, but we also have to ask whether Van Dijk really tried to prevent that situation? When you are the captain, the number one center-back, you have to show responsibility to your teammates."

Liverpool have just lost three consecutive matches in the Premier League, putting pressure on coach Arne Slot's team. Keane warned: "When you are champions, the biggest challenge is to maintain your form next season. Opponents will try their best to beat you. MU today showed confidence, while Liverpool did not show their character."

As captain, Van Dijk needs to quickly regain form and restore the team's morale before the situation gets worse.

All goals of the match Liverpool 1-2 MU On the night of October 19, MU excellently defeated Liverpool 2-1 at Anfield in round 8 of the Premier League 2025/26.

Source: https://znews.vn/van-dijk-o-dau-trong-khung-hoang-cua-liverpool-post1595323.html