Van Dijk Aims to Create a Hostile Atmosphere at Anfield for Title Challenge

Virgil van Dijk (33) has called on Liverpool’s players and supporters to transform Anfield into a “horrible” environment for visiting teams during the crucial run-in for the Premier League title.

Liverpool currently hold an 11-point lead over second-placed Arsenal at the summit of the table, with just 11 matches left to play following their 2-0 victory over reigning champions Manchester City on Sunday.

While Arsenal do have a game in hand, Arne Slot’s squad is racing toward matching the record for the 20th English top-flight championship and will play seven of their final league fixtures at Anfield.

In their recent 2-1 home win against Wolves, Liverpool appeared to be on edge, having also dropped points against Everton and Aston Villa in earlier encounters.

“I touched on it after the Wolves match; it’s quite normal for humans to experience some anxious moments,” acknowledged Liverpool captain Van Dijk.

“That feeling might still linger, but entirely flipping the script and making Anfield a daunting place for our opponents—as we’ve often done—will really make a difference. The way we perform plays a significant role in that too.”

He continued: “Let’s ensure those seven home games are nothing short of spectacular, as loud as possible. I don’t think it needs much discussion; that’s usually how it is.”

Goals from Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai secured Liverpool their first league win at the Etihad Stadium in nearly a decade, taking full advantage of Arsenal’s loss to West Ham the day before.

The Liverpool fans were heard chanting “We’re going to win the league” in the match’s dying moments, eagerly anticipating their second English league title since 1990.

“Just a couple of days ago, there were discussions about other matters that could have led us in a different direction,” Van Dijk said, now focusing his attention on Wednesday’s home clash against Newcastle.

“Clearly, the result from Saturday, along with the win at the Etihad, has bolstered the fans’ belief.

“It’s up to us to stay laser-focused on the upcoming matches. That’s our approach, and I’ve conveyed that to the lads.”

“Right now, it’s all about recovery and being prepared for Newcastle. This will be another significant test, and we will need our supporters to be in top form.”