Virgil van Dijk believes last season’s setback could serve as motivation for Liverpool to push for the trophy in 2025.

The Reds suffered a disappointing end to their previous campaign, finishing third in the Premier League after falling out of contention in the title race and exiting the Europa League at the quarter-final stage.

This term, however, Liverpool are in a much stronger position. They currently lead the Premier League by six points and have a perfect record in the Champions League.

Van Dijk spoke of the team’s calm and focused approach, crediting their work ethic and collective mentality as they continue to compete on multiple fronts under Arne Slott.

“I think you have to learn from the difficult moments and the moments that don’t go your way,” he said after Liverpool’s 2-1 win at the Lille.

“Now most of the guys in the dressing room have experienced last year and that should make you better, make you aware of how to deal with certain situations and circumstances and you should be better equipped. Let’s see.

Our place in the last 16 secured ✅✨ pic.twitter.com/lNQNouysss

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) January 21, 2025

“I look at our squad at the moment and we’re very calm, we’re playing our socks off every day and every game, and we want everyone fit, healthy and in form and that’s the aim.

“Going into every game with the mentality it’s game by game. That is how it has always been the case. It’s been a great ride, I think you should enjoy it too and I certainly will.

Liverpool’s performance has not gone unnoticed. Brentford head coach Thomas Frank recently described the Reds as “the best team in the world”, which was backed up by Lille striker Jonathan David.

For Van Dijk, such accolades are a testament to the team’s effort. “I think that kind of confirms that we’re on the right track,” he added.

“We work hard every game to be a very tough team to beat.

“When other managers praise you for the way you not only attack but defend as well as a group and the body you get back behind the ball it’s just a good sign and a credit to the hard work everyone has put in. In. That’s the only thing we have to take from it and other than that is just focus on doing that and being consistent.”