Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk shows his leadership mentality by holding himself responsible for the Arsenal defeat
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk took accountability for the 3-1 Arsenal defeat by accepting his mistake that turned the game. Van Dijk and the Reds goalkeeper Alisson suffered miscommunication that led to Arsenal’s second goal through Gabriel Martinelli.
The Gunners started the game well, taking advantage of the home turf by scoring an early goal from Bukayo Saka. Liverpool fought back just before halftime to equalise after a scrappy Luis Diaz’s shot led to Gabriel Magalhaes’ own goal.
The Reds started the second half strongly, showing the tenacity that helped them make several comebacks this season. Unfortunately, a long ball from Gabriel caused an inadvertent miscommunication between Alisson and Van Dijk, leading to the second goal.
Arsenal secured the victory through an extra-time goal from Leandro Trossard from Alisson’s second mistake of the night. The Reds went a man down with a red card for Ibrahima Konate by the time Arsenal scored their third.
Speaking to Sky Sports (h/t Liverpoolfc.com) after the game, Van Dijk took the blame upon himself while protecting his teammates. He said:
“Eventually [it was] a very tough day, definitely. I think the 2-1 goal, I take full responsibility for that, but it’s a big turning point in the game. I should have done better, I should have made a better decision there. It hurts for me, and it hurts for the rest of the team. It was a big turning point in the game because I think especially after the break, we were so good.”
Many can rightfully blame Alisson for committing unnecessarily which led to the goal. Nevertheless, mistakes can happen and both players have won Liverpool enough games to let one bad day slide.
Van Dijk is having an incredible season as the Reds’ captain, playing some of the best football of his career. At the same time, the Dutchman’s tiniest mistake gets scrutinized due to the standards that he has set as the best defender in Europe right now.
Meanwhile, Liverpool did not create a lot of clear-cut opportunities and the whole team is accountable for the loss. While accepting accountability is important before the problems can be rectified, it is time to move forward.
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The Reds are still at the top of the Premier League table though Manchester City have two games in hand. Plenty of Premier League action remains and only the one capable of handling disappointment and bounce back would win the title.
