On his 100th appearance as captain of Liverpool, Virgil van Dijk puts on a show 💪.
Van Dijk acknowledges that Arsenal has made life difficult at the Emirates
Virgil van Dijk has admitted that the Emirates Stadium has become into a formidable location for visiting teams, giving Arsenal credit for making it a demanding setting. With supporters anticipating that the great majority of home games will finish in victory, the Gunners’ impressive home record has increased their confidence.
Spurred on by an enthusiastic home crowd, Arsenal demonstrated their tenacity by seizing the lead twice in today’s match against van Dijk’s Liverpool. The mood appeared to be in favor of a win, but Liverpool’s tenacity allowed them to come back each time, and they even looked capable of winning late. In addition to setting up one of Liverpool’s goals, Van Dijk was a key player who successfully led the defense to help his team win a portion of the match.
Following the game, Van Dijk acknowledged that the Emirates has become one of the Premier League’s most difficult away venues for any club. He stated in an interview with Sky Sports:
Teams have seen over the years that it’s a really difficult area to come. They have formed a strong team and make things challenging for everyone. We take the point—that’s the feeling—and it’s wonderful to return twice.
His remarks are in line with Arsenal’s development in recent years, as Mikel Arteta has given the Gunners a resilient and fighting mentality that makes them a formidable opponent, particularly at home. There have been many impressive performances at the Emirates, and Arsenal’s development is demonstrated by their ability to compete with elite teams like Liverpool.
However, Arsenal must begin converting draws into victories, particularly against other championship contenders, if they are to fully take advantage of their home edge. Securing the most points possible in home games would be a significant step in their development as a top team and is necessary to maintain a credible campaign for trophies.