Liverpool head coach Arne Slot emphasised the importance of captain Virgil van Dijk and the overall leadership qualities he brings. Van Dijk returned early from the October international break after receiving a red card against Hungary in the Nations League.

The Dutch captain’s lack of presence cost the Netherlands dearly against Germany in the Nations League, losing the game 1-0. Van Dijk earned a much-needed rest by returning early after a request from the club as he desired to stay.

The Reds are facing a hectic schedule due to the change in the format of the Champions League this season. Key players like Van Dijk need to take the opportunity a rest whenever they can amid the strenuous current season.

Liverpool will face Chelsea in the Premier League clash at Anfield followed by the Champions League game against RB Leipzig. They will face Arsenal in the Premier League contenders clash right after playing Leipzig, having few days between these games.

The hectic fixture filled with clashes against several top teams will continue until the new year as Liverpool chase glory. Liverpool will continue to push for every trophy, having a good depth in the squad and under the new tactics.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference (via Liverpoolfc.com), Slot highlighted the leadership quality of Van Dijk pushing the club forward. He said:

“He has been crucial for us, like many others, but Virgil definitely as well. From what you guys see on the pitch, there we see all the same how good he is and he still is in defence [and] how much he contributes to our offensive side to our play. But what you guys don’t see and what I do see is how important he also is on the training ground. He’s always the one that’s most loud during the sessions, he always brings a lot of energy into our sessions and quality as well. What you see during the weekends is also what I see during the week, and that’s what you’re hoping for if you have a captain that is not only showing his performances in the weekend but also during the week. He’s definitely our leader.”

Van Dijk struggled with form before the 2023-24 season as many of his naysayers questioned his durability as he aged. Nevertheless, the 33-year-old proved that he is an anomaly by dominating for the Reds during the last season as captain.

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Van Dijk has continued to perform at the topmost level despite facing uncertainty about his future, playing in the last season of his current contract. However, Liverpool fans are hopeful that the Dutchman will sign a new contract soon to end the undesired uncertainty.