Virgil van Dijk thinks draw was the right result as they were missing players like Arsenal

In the build-up and aftermath of Liverpool’s intense clash with Arsenal at the Emirates, much of the psychological battle mirrored the on-field action. Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, emphasized the role of injuries in his team’s inability to leverage Liverpool’s first-half shortcomings to make a strong early claim for the title. Despite the drama, the match demonstrated why Liverpool is intent on maintaining their early-season momentum.

Virgil van Dijk provided insights into the game’s dynamics and Liverpool’s ongoing campaign for the Premier League title. Van Dijk dismissed the notion that the Arsenal match would determine the title outcome, reflecting on the unpredictable nature of a long season:

Van Dijk said “It was a well deserved point in the end. It was a tough game for both sides. In the second half we were the better team. In the first half we started well, we did a little bit better but then they scored to make it 2-1 and they got momentum. The people who spoke about if you lose here, you lose the league, they actually have no clue in my opinion. The season is so long and there are so many twists and turns that can happen and will happen. We focus on the game ahead of us. Over the years I’ve mentioned that the team who sets a very good foundation before December and goes through December in the best way possible with no injuries and good results will have a good chance to finish on top of the league.”

He also addressed Arsenal’s injury situation and an early match incident with Kai Havertz,

Van Dijk said “That’s part of football. We also were missing certain players. It’s a physical game. These things happen. If you watch the battles that we have during the games it goes both ways. That’s part and parcel of the game.” Regarding the defensive solidity, Van Dijk commented on his partnership with Ibrahima Konate, stating, “He is making big progress. He is a fantastic player, so consistent now as well. He is getting the credit I think he deserves now. He is still looking after himself in the best way possible. He is growing as a leader and he is a fantastic partner to have next to me.”

Acknowledging Liverpool’s title prospects, Van Dijk recognized the challenges ahead.

Van Dijk said  “Obviously the results have been outstanding, but we just try to win the next game ahead of us. We are trying to improve and be the best version of ourselves as a team and individuals as well. The games we have played we have shown amazing football defending and attacking. But there have also been moments where we have to improve and we all realize that. That’s the focus on a daily basis before the games that we play. There will be many things we can analyze after the Arsenal game, the good things and less good things. We got a point, now we go back and focus on Brighton as that will be a tough one on Saturday.”