Van Dijk speaks candidly about Arsenal ahead of leading Liverpool in their bid to extend an unbeaten record in a Premier League headline match.
On 1 November 2026 GMT+7, Virgil van Dijk, Liverpool’s captain and defender, wrote a column in the matchday program ahead of the English Premier League 2026-27 season’s week 9 headline game, as Liverpool host reigning champions Arsenal tonight at 23:30.
Liverpool is in excellent form, having won five consecutive matches across all competitions and remaining unbeaten against Arsenal at Anfield in their last 13 meetings (8 wins, 5 draws). They will also be playing their fourth consecutive home game.
Van Dijk elaborated before Liverpool’s home match against Arsenal, saying, "Playing four consecutive home games is rare, but the final game of this run is especially exciting. Matches against Arsenal are always special, and this Sunday’s game is no exception."
"I know everyone is fully prepared for this match, and we are too. This is a game everyone wants to be involved in, so let’s give our all and continue this good form."
"Advancing in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday was important. Chelsea posed the expected challenge, but as a team, we handled it well, ultimately winning in the penalty shootout."
"Now we have another home game and a tough test against Bournemouth ahead, but we’ll address that later. For now, we must focus on the Premier League, especially the game against Arsenal, and prepare to meet the significant challenge they will present."
"They have proven their strength over several seasons, so if we want to claim three points, we need to perform at our best or at least close to our highest level."
"It all starts with our usual attitude and commitment. No Premier League game is easy or comfortable, especially against Arsenal."
"You must stay focused from the first second, be ready to run hard, fight for every ball, and support your teammates both on and off the ball for the entire 90 minutes or more."
"In recent weeks, we’ve shown we understand these challenges and can remain calm and united, even when the circumstances on the pitch are difficult."
"Of course, there will be moments when we might be on the back foot without the ball, but the key is to stay composed and, whenever we have possession, to showcase our full potential."
"Another crucial factor is harnessing the energy you give us to push forward. When Anfield is at its best atmosphere, we perform at our best, and vice versa."
"As I said, games like this are the ones we players love and look forward to. Hopefully, we can deliver a great result for everyone to celebrate together."