Liverpool’s recent slide has not gone unnoticed, and club captain Virgil van Dijk is now under fire from pundits following another frustrating loss. After their 2-1 defeat to Manchester United, Roy Keane didn’t hold back, urging the Dutch defender to take accountability and reassess his leadership as the Reds suffer their fourth consecutive loss in all competitions.
Keane Slams Van Dijk’s Leadership Amid Defensive Struggles
Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane, known for his blunt assessments, singled out Van Dijk during Sky Sports’ post-match analysis. Despite largely escaping criticism during Liverpool’s downturn, the centre-back was firmly in Keane’s crosshairs following Sunday’s loss at Old Trafford.
“When you’re a big player, a leader, and your team is leaking goals like this, you’ve got to start by looking in the mirror,” Keane said. “He signed a big contract last year—great, but you’ve got to back that up on the pitch. Right now, he’s not doing enough.”
Liverpool’s Dip in Form: From Leaders to Chasers
Not long ago, Liverpool topped the Premier League table, holding a five-point cushion after five games. Fast forward a few weeks, and the Reds now trail league leaders Arsenal by four points, having suffered defeats against Crystal Palace, Galatasaray, Chelsea, and now Manchester United.
Keane believes Van Dijk’s presence hasn’t been enough to steady the ship, especially with several new faces in the squad. “You’ve got to wonder if he’s helping the younger or newer players,” Keane added. “He needs to be taking charge, setting the tone, and calming things down when it matters.”
The Burden of Being Champions—and the Response Needed
Keane also addressed the mental challenge that comes with being at the top. “When you become champions, the next season is always harder—teams come after you with more intent,” he said. “United had that swagger today. Liverpool didn’t match it.”
He criticized Liverpool’s tendency to concede late goals and give the ball away cheaply under pressure. “Moments before the goal, they handed possession back to United. That’s when Van Dijk has to step in and take control—tell the lads to calm down, manage the moment. That’s what leaders do.”
Liverpool Facing Crucial Period of Reflection
As Liverpool’s title hopes begin to wobble, Keane’s message to Van Dijk is clear: step up. The Reds’ defensive frailty, particularly in high-pressure moments, is costing them valuable points. While there’s still time to turn things around, Liverpool’s senior players, starting with their captain, must shoulder the responsibility.
