Virgil van Dijk launched a fierce critique of Liverpool’s form after their 3–0 home defeat to Nottingham Forest, admitting the reigning champions are “in a mess” and questioning whether every player is taking responsibility for the team’s collapse.
The loss, Liverpool’s sixth in seven Premier League games, left them in the bottom half of the table with a negative goal difference. Van Dijk described the performance as “unacceptable,” especially the start to the second half, and said panic set in once they fell behind. He also admitted the team is letting down new manager Arne Slot.
Speaking loudly and angrily in the Anfield tunnel, the captain urged the squad to respond. He stressed that players must hold themselves accountable, adding that basic elements such as pressing and working together are not happening consistently enough.
Despite spending nearly £450m in the summer, Van Dijk said the problems go beyond new signings and affect the whole squad. He pointed to a lack of consistency, too many goals conceded, and too many lost battles as key issues.
Van Dijk insisted the team must stay united rather than blame individuals. He said difficult periods require strength of character and persistence, adding that giving up is not an option at a club like Liverpool.
Liverpool face PSV in midweek before traveling to West Ham next weekend, and Van Dijk said the focus now is on finding solutions rather than dwelling on failure.
