Liverpool won’t train on Christmas Day this year, with Virgil van Dijk welcoming a rarity which is “special” for both staff and players with no game on Boxing Day.
The Reds are not in action again until December 27, with Wolves the visitors to Anfield in a 3pm kickoff after the Premier League broke tradition.
Typically Boxing Day would bring a full slate of fixtures, but contractual obligations and the need to broadcast over the weekend means only one game will take place on December 26: Man United vs. Newcastle.
With a full week between games that has allowed Arne Slot to grant his players, and by extension the club’s staff including those working at the AXA Training Centre, a break over Christmas.
It has rarely been the case before, with Liverpool almost always training on Christmas Day – and speaking after the 2-1 win at Tottenham, Van Dijk welcomed the change.
“I’ll make the most of spending the day with my wife and kids,” he told reporters including the Liverpool Echo‘s Paul Gorst.
“I think [it’s the first time I’ve had Christmas off as a Liverpool player]. It’s a nice change.
“I’ll be at home Christmas Eve too. I’m really looking forward to it.
“We are having dinner [together as a squad] tonight. The staff always have a particular plan for a game. It works well for everyone.
“It’s special to be off on Christmas Day. I don’t think it’s happened in my Premier League career so far. I’ll make the most of being with my family and enjoy it all.”
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - Monday, September 29, 2025: Liverpool's captain Virgil van Dijk during a training session at the AXA Training Centre ahead of the UEFA Champions League match between Galatasaray A.?. and Liverpool FC. (Photo by Richard Martin-Roberts/Propaganda)
Liverpool will reconvene at the AXA Training Centre on Boxing Day, the day before their next game, with recovery work taking place at the start of this week.
It should provide the squad and staff with an opportunity to not only recharge but also take a mental break, while the chance to enjoy a full Christmas Day with their families will be much appreciated.
That is also the case for those working at the training ground, as it would usually require a full staff – such as those working in the kitchens and on the facilities – to run on any given day.
The Reds are currently on a six-game unbeaten run and head into their clash with Wolves sitting fifth in the Premier League, 10 points behind leaders Arsenal who they play in four games’ time on January 8.