Liverpool captain, Virgil van Dijk, has urged his teammates to put last season’s disappointing campaign behind them and respond with a stronger showing this term.
The Reds endured a difficult 2025/26 season, finishing fifth in the Premier League and ending the campaign without a major trophy.
Their struggles ultimately contributed to the departure of manager Arne Slot.
Liverpool lost 19 of their 56 matches across all competitions, including 12 defeats in the league.
They were also eliminated from the Champions League and FA Cup at the quarter-final stage, while their League Cup campaign ended in the fourth round.
Van Dijk believes the players must use the disappointment as motivation to improve.
“Last year was unacceptable. This year we have an opportunity to turn that around,” Van Dijk said.
“We all know how tough that will be but if you’re not up for the challenge, then you’re not at the right place.
“What I feel at the moment is everyone is up for the challenge. Let’s see how we go about it.
“I’m really looking forward to this season, and I don’t think we have a point to prove to anyone.
“We have to show how much we care, how much we want to fight for this badge and also realise how privileged we are to be playing for Liverpool.”
Liverpool have appointed former Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola as Slot’s successor, with the Spaniard expected to restore the intensity and attacking style associated with his previous side.
The club has also undergone significant changes to its squad during the summer.
Mohamed Salah, Ibrahima Konate and Andrew Robertson have left Anfield, while Curtis Jones is expected to join Inter Milan.
Victor Munoz and Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet have arrived on permanent deals, while Barcelona centre-back Ronald Araujo has joined on loan.
With Iraola admitting during pre-season that his players were only capable of maintaining their intensity for about 30 minutes, Van Dijk stressed the importance of keeping the squad fit throughout the campaign.
“If you look at Bournemouth last year, I think they were pretty exciting. I would say if we keep working, keep believing, keep showing our quality, then we can be very excited,” Van Dijk said.
“We need everyone to be fit. We need a squad which is able to compete on all four fronts, and that’s the only way to try to be successful.
“Let’s see what the last couple of weeks of the transfer window will bring and then let’s go for it.”
