Virgil van Dijk claiming that “everyone” Liverpool is part and parcel of being a Champions League-winning machine.
The Reds were defeated 2-0 by Napoli on Tuesday night, with Van Dijk’s rare mistake in stoppage time sealing the loss, amid wild celebrations from the home crowd.
Speaking to LiverpoolFC.com, the Dutchman says it’s only natural that opponents will up their game against Liverpool, urging his side to remain focused:
I think everyone wants to beat us no matter what competition. That’s something we have to deal with but it’s not going to be a problem at all.
We have to enjoy that as well and I think for them to win their first game is obviously big.
For us to lose our first game is obviously not what we wanted but the only thing we can do is try to win all the other games and now focus on Chelsea.
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It is only natural that teams are now more keen to beat Liverpool, considering the boost it gives you beating the European champions.
Winning also breeds jealousy, particularly in the more tribal modern game, which is precisely why the Reds are probably less popular than before.
Jurgen Klopp’s men must thrive under this pressure, though, showing the world that they are here to stay.
A response to the Napoli defeat is required on Sunday afternoon, as Liverpool head to Chelsea in the Premier League.
