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

Liverpool's revamped defensive line will need some time to gel, according to captain Virgil van Dijk. Despite praising new signings Ronald Araujo and Jeremy Jacquet as "good players," the Dutch defender acknowledged that rebuilding the backline after the departures of Ibrahima Konate, Andy Robertson, and Joe Gomez's injury required patience.

The Merseyside club bolstered their defense by signing Uruguayan Araujo on a season-long loan from Barcelona and Frenchman Jacquet, who joined in the summer. During a 2-0 friendly match against Italian club Como at Anfield, the latter scored a goal, demonstrating his worth to the team. Van Dijk explained that forging strong partnerships with his new teammates would come through actual games rather than just training sessions.

He emphasized that, although English might be a bit better for Jacquet compared to Araujo, all the players are skilled enough to understand and react to defensive situations. Van Dijk stated that it's entirely normal to take some time to form connections and get the defense clicking, but he expressed hope that they could accelerate the process.

Liverpool, who finished fifth last season, are set to kick off their Premier League campaign against Newcastle United on August 23.