Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has broken his silence on the escalating dispute between Mohamed Salah and head coach Arne Slot, insisting the squad remains focused despite the storm of speculation surrounding the Egyptian forward.
Salah’s explosive interview at Leeds dominated the build-up to Tuesday night’s Champions League clash with Inter Milan, but the forward was left behind in England as Liverpool travelled to Italy. In his absence, the Reds secured a vital 1–0 victory thanks to Dominik Szoboszlai’s late penalty in the 88th minute.
Speaking after the match, Van Dijk admitted the situation has been difficult for everyone involved but stressed that it has not derailed the team’s unity or determination.
“Obviously it’s difficult. It’s a collective difficult situation we’re all in,” he told Amazon Prime Video. “Between Mo and the club, things are going on. Because of that, he’s not here today to help us try to get the three points. That’s the reality.
“But nothing changes in terms of our focus and determination to get results for the club. It’s not for me to say if someone needs to apologise. He’s aired his feelings, and that’s something the club has to deal with.”
Van Dijk revealed he plans to speak privately with Salah and insisted the dressing room has chosen to block out the external noise.
“I’ve known Mo for a long time. We’re good friends and have been through highs and lows together. Those conversations will stay in-house, as they should. As a team, we must be strong against outside noise,” he added.
Former Dutch international Clarence Seedorf, who was a pundit on the broadcast, suggested Salah should apologise. Van Dijk, however, maintained that the squad’s priority is performance on the pitch.
Liverpool’s win in Milan extended their unbeaten run to four matches in a difficult season. Reflecting on the victory, Van Dijk said: “It’s a good feeling to win, especially in a period where we’re trying to find consistency and something to build on. It’s never easy to come here and play against a very good side, but we handled the game well.
“There’s always noise when results aren’t good. That’s normal. But what matters is what we can control on the pitch. We want to improve, be consistent and win games.”
The Reds now turn their attention to the Premier League, preparing to host Brighton at Anfield in their next fixture. It will be their final match before Salah departs for the Africa Cup of Nations. A win would draw Liverpool level on points with fourth-placed Crystal Palace, who face leaders Manchester City at Selhurst Park.
