Liverpool’s new-look defence will take time to gel, says Van Dijk

Captain Virgil van Dijk has stated that Liverpool's new defense will take time to gel, despite praising the skills of the new signings. He emphasized that playing competitive matches, rather than just training, is crucial for building strong partnerships with teammates. The defense has been impacted by departures of Ibrahima Konate and Andy Robertson, as well as Joe Gomez's injury sustained in the pre-season match.

The club bolstered their defense by signing Ronald Araujo on a season-long loan from Barcelona and Frenchman Jeremy Jacquet, who joined in the summer. Both players participated in a friendly match against Como at Anfield, with Jacquet scoring a goal. Van Dijk highlighted that while Araujo's English proficiency may be better than Ronald's, all players are skilled and can sense when to defend in specific situations.

He affirmed that it's natural for new partnerships to form over time, but hopes it happens as quickly as possible. Liverpool, who finished fifth last season, are set to start their Premier League campaign against Newcastle United on August 23.