Van Dijk will play in a new-look Liverpool defence this season
Van Dijk will play in a new-look Liverpool defence this season (Getty)
Virgil van Dijk has stated that developing an on-pitch understanding with Liverpool's new defensive signings, Jeremy Jacquet and Ronald Araujo, will naturally take time following a major summer overhaul of the central defence.
The defensive restructuring follows the departure of Ibrahima Konate alongside persistent fitness struggles for Joe Gomez and Giovani Leoni, prompting Liverpool to secure £60 million signing Jacquet and Barcelona loanee Araujo.
Both new defenders impressed during a 2-0 friendly win over Como on Sunday, where 21-year-old Jacquet scored the second goal on his debut after recovering from a long-term injury before making way for Araujo.
Liverpool’s opening game of the season at Newcastle will mark the first competitive test under new head coach Andoni Iraola, who aims to re-establish a high-tempo tactical style following Arne Slot's two-year tenure.
Van Dijk emphasised that while the squad is adapting to Iraola's pressing demands, Liverpool must remain compact and manage energy levels effectively across different phases of a match.