Van Dijk Responds to Rooney After Liverpool Triumph Over Real Madrid
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has responded firmly to recent criticism from Wayne Rooney following Liverpool’s 1-0 victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League. The win, marked by a commanding defensive display, signalled a turning point for Arne Slot’s side after weeks of inconsistency and questions over leadership within the dressing room.
Liverpool entered the contest under immense pressure after a run of poor form that saw them lose six of their previous seven matches. Real Madrid, unbeaten in Europe this season and in free-scoring form, arrived at Anfield as strong favourites. Yet, Van Dijk’s leadership was instrumental in steadying a side desperate for stability.
It was revealed that the Dutchman had called a private team meeting in the days before the match – a session he described as an attempt to “bring perspective” amid the chaos. Speaking after the game, Van Dijk acknowledged that while criticism is part of football, much of it had gone too far.
“In a world of chaos, you have to stay calm,” he said. “Yes, we’d had a tough spell, but there was still so much football to be played. The noise was a lot, and of course if you lose four or five games in a row as a Liverpool player, criticism is normal. But some of it was over the top.”
Rooney comments spark strong reaction
Among the critics was former Everton and Manchester United forward Wayne Rooney, who questioned Van Dijk’s leadership and suggested he had “let things slide” after signing his new deal. Van Dijk did not shy away from addressing those comments directly.
“I think the comment that I signed my new deal and then let it slide was a bit much,” he said. “If you watch the games, you’ll see I take responsibility every single time. But everyone is entitled to their opinion – we move on.”
The exchange added an extra layer of intrigue to the post-match analysis as Van Dijk faced Rooney in the studio. However, the defender’s performance on the pitch spoke louder than words. Alongside a resurgent backline, he helped limit Real Madrid to just one clear chance, while Liverpool looked composed and purposeful throughout.
Slot praises crowd and focus
Arne Slot hailed both his team’s discipline and the Anfield atmosphere as decisive factors in overcoming one of Europe’s most formidable sides. “We played against an incredible team that rarely loses,” he said. “If you can perform like that, it’s very positive. It’s been a tough schedule – lots of travel and little rest – but playing in front of our fans brings the best out of everyone.”
Slot also praised Alexis Mac Allister, who scored the game’s only goal with a precise header from a Dominik Szoboszlai free-kick. The Argentine’s strike not only sealed the win but also restored belief within a Liverpool side that had been struggling for cohesion.
Focus shifts to Manchester City challenge
Liverpool’s next challenge is equally daunting – a Premier League clash with Manchester City. Van Dijk will once again face Erling Haaland, whose scoring record this season remains extraordinary.
“You can see how well Arsenal are doing – clean sheets and consistency,” Van Dijk noted. “For us, it starts with defending well. We’ve got the quality to hurt anyone on the counter. Sunday will be another huge test.”
With Arsenal maintaining their lead at the top of the Premier League and Liverpool rebuilding confidence, the title race is taking shape once more. For Van Dijk, the message is clear – composure, leadership and perspective are essential if Liverpool are to challenge on all fronts again.
