By
SABC Sport
25th February 2025
Goals from Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai helped Liverpool secure a 2-0 victory over reigning champions Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, putting Arne Slot's team 11 points clear at the top of the table.
Although second-placed Arsenal have a game in hand, Liverpool are now considered the strong favorites to claim the title this season, with the added benefit of seven of their final 11 league matches being played at home.
After the win in Manchester, Van Dijk spoke to reporters, saying, "I mentioned it after the (Wolves) game, that it's perfectly normal to feel nervous at times," he said. "It's a human response, and it's possible that anxious feelings might still arise.
"However, I think that only helps us, and the fans too, to make Anfield a dreadful place for the opposition. Most of the time, we've been successful in doing that, and of course, our style of play contributes to that.
"How many home games are left? Seven out of 11. So let's make sure those seven are unforgettable, as loud as possible. I don't think we need to discuss it too much because that's usually how it is.
"Let's go, enjoy, focus on Wednesday now, and then we'll see what happens next."
Liverpool's triumph over City marked their first Premier League win at the Etihad in ten years. The result came in the midst of a grueling stretch of five matches in 15 days for the league leaders, who will face Newcastle United at Anfield on Wednesday.
Van Dijk said, "This was a huge win. I told the guys, 'Don't take these victories for granted, but when you head home, recover and get ready for the Newcastle preparation.'"
"That's all we need to focus on - tunnel vision. Nothing else matters right now. And we need our fans to be in top form on Wednesday as well."
Van Dijk has played every minute of Liverpool's Premier League season so far, partnering with Ibrahima Konate, Joe Gomez, and Jarell Quansah, all of whom have had their own injury struggles.
His contract situation with the club, however, remains unresolved, as his current deal expires at the end of the season.