{
  "id": 1809242,
  "title": "Liverpool's new-look defence needs time to gel, says Van Dijk",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/18/liverpools-new-look-defence-needs-time-to-gel-says-van-dijk",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-18T22:00:32.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/sports/football/2026/08/1514126/liverpools-new-look-defence-needs-time-gel-says-van-dijk"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Liverpool's revamped defence requires patience to gel, according to captain Virgil van Dijk. The club's new signings Ronald Araujo and Jeremy Jacquet are considered \"good players,\" though van Dijk acknowledges it will take time for them to form strong partnerships. The departures of Ibrahima Konate, Andy Robertson, and Joe Gomez's injury have necessitated a rebuilding of the defence. Araujo and Jacquet recently featured in a 2-0 friendly win over Como at Anfield, with the latter scoring a goal. Van Dijk emphasized that \"games are totally different than training,\" highlighting the importance of playing together to forge connections and understand defensive situations. He believes it is normal for such a process to take time, but hopes they can start clicking quickly. Liverpool, who finished fifth last season, will open their Premier League campaign against Newcastle United on August 23.",
  "summary": "Your browser does not support the audio element.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}