Virgil van Dijk called the season unacceptable after a 3-2 loss to Manchester United, their 18th defeat across competitions. He said there are no excuses and that significant work must be done behind the scenes. Liverpool sit fourth, 18 points behind leaders Arsenal, making Champions League qualification uncertain.

He stressed the need to avoid a repeat of title‑defence woes, noting only Leicester lost more games as defending champions. Van Dijk highlighted three games left, four points needed, and the financial importance of European football. He rejected claims of excessive days off, saying players get one rest day and use any spare time responsibly.

Van Dijk vowed to stay and fight, insisting consistency will decide success. He urged the squad to focus on securing the needed points against Chelsea and the final fixture, emphasizing that the club’s reputation and revenue depend on maintaining top‑four status. The defender left the press conference insisting the current campaign must not be repeated.

Fans and pundits have called for a review of training schedules, comparing Liverpool’s one‑day rest to Manchester City’s three‑day breaks under Guardiola. Van Dijk admitted balance is key, but maintained the squad is professional and ready to finish the season strongly.