Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk says there is an added sense of expectation at Anfield as they prepare for two crunch games over the next five days.
The Reds take on Real Madrid in the Champions League tonight before Sunday’s Premier League clash with four-time defending champions Manchester City.
Writing in his matchday programme notes before tonight’s game on Merseyside, the Dutch centre-half said: “I love every single week of playing for Liverpool, and I always will, but I’d be lying if I said that as a group we weren’t aware of the excitement building over what is to come over the next few days.
Virgil van Dijk’s Real Madrid preview 🗣️
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) November 27, 2024
“To play at Anfield against first Real Madrid, and then on Sunday against Manchester City, is something we as players are really looking forward to, and I’m sure our supporters feel exactly the same.
“Huge challenges, but challenges we will face head-on, I can assure you.”
Chance to move back to the top of the table
A win against a Madrid side that won the competition last season would move Arne Slot’s men two points clear at the top of the new 36-team league table.
Van Dijk added: “Now, our focus [is on] Real Madrid, and what should be another fantastic Champions League night under the lights at Anfield.
“We cannot underplay or underestimate this one. I am well aware that I have never beaten Real Madrid as a player, and that as a team we have lost some big games against them. Our record against them is obviously something we would like to change, but I can assure you that that is not something that will affect our preparations for this game.
“It’s the Champions League, it’s a massive game, a beautiful fixture for the neutral, and it’s one that we want to come out on top of.”
No Vinicius Jr for Madrid
Liverpool will fancy their chances against a Madrid side shorn of injured winger Vinicius Jr and that has already lost to Lille and AC Milan this season.
Van Dijk added: “We are looking forward to this. Our results this season have been really good, and that gives us a lot of confidence, no matter the opponent.
“Of course, we know the quality of the team we will be up against. They are the reigning European champions, and they have world-class players in every position. We cannot ignore that, and we have to make sure that we are ready to fight from the very first whistle. We know that Anfield will be loud and that the fans will be right behind us.”
