Captain Virgil van Dijk says his Liverpool team-mates understand the rivalry with Manchester United and admits games against the Red Devils at Anfield have “some extra meaning for the fans”.
Liverpool are currently enjoying an impressive season in Arne Slot’s first season as manager. Slot’s side sit at the top of the Premier League and have the chance to move eight points clear with one game remaining when they host United on Sunday.
In contrast, their bitter rivals have continued to struggle under new boss Ruben Amorim this season. Despite the win against Manchester City, United have lost their last three league games in a row without scoring a goal and conceding seven goals in the process.
United currently sit 14th in the table, with Amorim recently admitting his side were fighting to avoid relegation.
The captain’s #LIVMUN Program notes 🔴
Virgil van Dijk explains the added importance of tomorrow’s meeting with Manchester United ✊
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) January 4, 2025
But in his notes on the official matchday program, the Dutchman said he expected a tough test at Anfield and recognized the added significance of the game.
“Every game is important when you play for this club,” wrote Van Dijk. “But of course a game at Anfield against United has a certain extra meaning for the fans.
“We understand this rivalry and know that there will be a special atmosphere that we will use to our advantage in the fight for the three points.
“Make no mistake, this will be a tough test. We know that United are not yet where they would like to be in the table and that they have had a difficult start to the season, but they still have top players, so it is important that we are there from the start and stay focused. “
The Reds captain also enjoyed a strong first half of the season but insists there is still work to be done.
“We know what success is based on. Quality, certainly, but also humility, willingness to sacrifice, work ethic and solidarity. If we always keep this in mind, then these are the things that get us where we want to be.
“The platform we gave ourselves in the first few months of the season is clear, but we now have to move on from here.
“We don’t look at the table and don’t count the points we haven’t won yet. We’re just focused on the next game, the next challenge. Consistency is key, day after day and game after game.”
