Van Dijk backs Iraola transition after disappointing Liverpool season

Virgil van Dijk has backed new Liverpool coach Andoni Iraola to succeed as the club prepares for a fresh start following a disappointing season. According to Voetbalzone, Iraola replaced Arne Slot after leaving Bournemouth and has already spoken with the Liverpool captain about the campaign ahead.

Van Dijk said he had a positive conversation with Iraola during the week in which the appointment was announced. The Netherlands defender has offered to help the new coach with any information or support he might need and expressed hope that the partnership will deliver success.

The centre-back also stressed that his enthusiasm for the new regime should not be interpreted as criticism of Slot. He enjoyed working under his Dutch compatriot and looked back positively on their time together, although he acknowledged that their final season fell below expectations. Van Dijk said Liverpool’s players must now adapt to different staff, training methods and a changed pre-season programme.

Liverpool’s defensive options have also been reshaped. Ibrahima Konaté has departed for Real Madrid, while Jérémy Jacquet and Ronald Araújo have joined the squad. Giovanni Leoni, signed during Slot’s tenure, is still waiting for his Liverpool debut after suffering a cruciate ligament injury shortly after arriving. Van Dijk welcomed the new additions and indicated that further quality would be useful as Liverpool seek a stronger campaign.