Liverpool’s Van Dijk Commends Debutants Jacquet and Araújo After Preseason Win

Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk has lauded the performances of summer signings Jérémy Jacquet and Ronald Araújo during their recent 2-0 victory over Como, although he acknowledged that establishing a solid centre-back partnership will require time. Both players made their debuts, each playing 45 minutes in the match held on Sunday afternoon, with Jacquet scoring Liverpool’s second goal.

This match marked a significant return for Jacquet, who had been sidelined since suffering a dislocated shoulder in February. He made a notable impact against Como, a team managed by Cesc Fabregas, before Araújo, who joined Liverpool on a season-long loan from Barcelona just a week ago, took over in the second half. Van Dijk commented, “I think [Jacquet] did well, same as Ronald. It’s a start, a good start, so hopefully he can crack on. [You build relationships] by playing games. I won’t say it’s the only way, but games are totally different than training.”

Van Dijk pointed out that while Jacquet’s English is slightly more proficient than Araújo’s, both players are talented footballers capable of adapting. He added, “It’s pretty clear that you need to form a connection together and that takes a bit of time,” emphasizing that this development is a normal part of the process of integrating new players into the team.

Reflecting on the match, he noted Jacquet’s fatigue after his first full appearance in months, stating, “I think he came out of it a bit tired, but it’s absolutely normal when you’re playing your first 45 minutes after such a long time. Now it’s down to him to recover.” Liverpool will resume training in preparation for their upcoming Premier League opener against Newcastle at St James’ Park.

The victory against Como was particularly welcome for Liverpool, as it came after two consecutive preseason losses to Leeds United and AS Monaco. In contrast to those games, where they conceded a two-goal lead, Van Dijk observed improvements in the team’s performance and fitness level. He stated, “What I see is that no team in world football can play full intensity for 90 minutes. Obviously at a certain point, you’re gonna have some moments where players — or we all — get to a position where we’re gonna be a bit tired.”

He concluded by highlighting the importance of teamwork in maintaining intensity throughout the game, saying, “If you do that at the right time, at the right moment, then you don’t need to run as much as we sometimes do,” indicating that timing and tactical awareness are essential for success on the field.

Special Credits: Image Courtesy of Espn