Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has hit back at suggestions that the Reds' training schedule has been too light following Sunday's disappointing defeat at Manchester United. Speaking after the match, the Dutch defender addressed the social media chatter head-on, defending his team's preparation and professionalism.
"We are not kids. Everyone is an adult," Van Dijk stated firmly when asked about claims that some teammates had taken holidays during the buildup. He clarified that the players had just one day off in the week before the Manchester United clash, with another single day off scheduled ahead of Saturday's crucial fixture against Chelsea.
The captain was quick to dismiss the notion that a day off equates to a holiday, explaining that players use that time responsibly with their families. "It's a city trip, not a holiday," he emphasized, adding that he actually wouldn't mind a few more rest days, pointing to Pep Guardiola's success at Manchester City after giving his squad three consecutive days off.
Van Dijk acknowledged that poor results naturally fuel such criticism, but he urged perspective. "I can understand if people think we are not training and when results are not there, it could be a reason. But finding the right balance is key," he explained.
With Liverpool currently sitting fourth in the Premier League table—a staggering 18 points behind leaders Arsenal—the frustration is palpable. But Van Dijk made it clear that the squad shares the fans' disappointment and is determined to turn things around.
"I want this to be solved. I want us to experience success again, to be consistent, to win games and fight," he said passionately. "Consistency is the hardest thing in any job, but it's also the path to success. We have three more games before the World Cup, and we must realize that this season cannot be repeated. It's unacceptable."
As Liverpool gear up for a busy run of fixtures, fans will be hoping their captain's rallying cry sparks a turnaround in form—and perhaps a few more days off might not be such a bad idea after all.