Virgil van Dijk has admitted he is still struggling to process Liverpool's disastrous 2025/26 campaign after describing it as the toughest season of his professional career.
The Liverpool captain is currently focused on the World Cup with the Netherlands, but reflections on a difficult year at Anfield continue to follow him. The campaign ultimately ended with Liverpool finishing fifth in the Premier League and the departure of manager Arne Slot.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, Van Dijk revealed he has already held private talks with his former manager but insisted the details of that conversation will remain confidential.
Van Dijk admits Liverpool season took a mental toll
Liverpool entered the season as defending Premier League champions and among the favourites to challenge for major honours once again.
Instead, the campaign unravelled.
A squad strengthened by high-profile arrivals failed to find consistency, with Liverpool finishing 25 points behind champions Arsenal and suffering one of the most disappointing title defences in recent Premier League history.
For Van Dijk, the difficulties extended far beyond results on the pitch.
The Dutch defender admitted the season placed significant strain on him mentally, particularly as captain of a team struggling to cope with constant setbacks.
“This was the toughest season of my career. That is clear. Especially on the mental level.” — Virgil van Dijk, via Voetbal International
The 34-year-old explained that Liverpool repeatedly failed to build momentum, with promising performances often followed by disappointing setbacks.
Difficult year marked by emotional moments
Van Dijk also reflected on the emotional challenges that shaped the campaign.
Among the most difficult moments was dealing with the tragic death of Diogo Jota, an event that had a profound impact throughout the club.
The season also saw several long-serving figures depart Anfield, including Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson.
The Liverpool captain admitted those farewells left a lasting impression.
“I sat on the grass watching those two guys, with whom I had played for eight years. I have never experienced anything like it in all those years at Liverpool.” — Virgil van Dijk
Having followed Liverpool’s campaign throughout the season, there was a clear sense that events both on and off the pitch combined to create an unusually turbulent environment for the squad.
Van Dijk confirms conversation with Arne Slot
One of the biggest developments of the summer has been Liverpool’s decision to part ways with Arne Slot following just two seasons in charge.
The Dutchman delivered a Premier League title during his first campaign but paid the price for a dramatic decline during the second.
Andoni Iraola has already been appointed as his successor.
Van Dijk confirmed he has spoken directly with Slot since the decision was made, although he declined to reveal the contents of their discussion.
“I spoke to Arne personally, that is the most important thing. Exactly what we discussed remains between us.” — Virgil van Dijk
The defender added that his immediate focus is now entirely on helping the Netherlands at the World Cup.
| Liverpool 2025/26 | Outcome |
|---|---|
| Premier League Finish | 5th |
| Points Behind Champions | 25 |
| League Defeats | 12 |
| Manager | Arne Slot (departed) |
| Incoming Manager | Andoni Iraola |
Source: club and reported season data – 5 June 2026
The figures help illustrate why Liverpool have chosen to embark on another major reset this summer.
Why Van Dijk's leadership remains crucial
As Liverpool enter a new era under Iraola, Van Dijk's role may become more important than ever.
The departures of experienced leaders, combined with a disappointing campaign, leave the club in a transitional phase. Maintaining stability within the dressing room will be essential if Liverpool are to challenge near the top of the table again.
However, it remains too early to judge how quickly Iraola can rebuild confidence after such a difficult year.
Key Points
- Virgil van Dijk has described 2025/26 as the toughest season of his career.
- Liverpool finished fifth after a disappointing title defence.
- Arne Slot left the club following the campaign.
- Van Dijk confirmed he has spoken privately with Slot.
- The Dutch defender is now focused on the World Cup.
What’s next?
Liverpool's attention will soon shift towards pre-season preparations under Iraola, while several senior players continue their World Cup commitments.
The coming months will determine whether the club can quickly recover from a disappointing campaign or whether a longer rebuilding process lies ahead. Much will depend on summer recruitment, dressing-room stability and how effectively Iraola implements his ideas.
Can Liverpool bounce back immediately under Andoni Iraola, or will the scars of last season take longer to heal?
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