“I am constantly shouting at him” - Virgil van Dijk shares how ‘great’ Liverpool teammate feels about him
Virgil van Dijk has shed light on his relationship with Liverpool teammate Ryan Gravenberch and how his fellow countryman perceives him. The Netherlands duo became teammates when Gravenberch arrived at Anfield in September 2023.
The in-form midfielder joined the Reds from Bayern Munich in a reported £34 million deal. He took a year to adapt to life in the Premier League but is thriving under Arne Slot this term.
Van Dijk appears to be playing a role in getting Gravenberch firing on all cylinders. The Liverpool captain waxed lyrical about his compatriot in an interview with Dutch outlet Voetbal Primeur:
"Gravenberch is really in the form of his life. He plays with one hundred percent self-confidence, and he is developing himself enormously, especially defensively."
Van Dijk explained how he looks to motivate Gravenberch:
"Of course I am constantly shouting at him, but I have the feeling that he appreciates it. He’s going great now and he’s doing great. He just has to stay calm, make sure he doesn’t get injured and keep going."
Gravenberch, 22, has appeared 17 times across competitions this season, anchoring Liverpool in midfield. His tackling and ball-playing abilities have helped the Merseysiders occupy first place in the Premier League and UEFA Champions League.
"Exceptional" - Van Dijk is also delighted with Liverpool attacker Cody Gakpo's form
Gravenberch wasn't the only one of Van Dijk's national teammates to come in for praise from the Dutch defender. He also lauded Cody Gakpo, whose been impressive under Slot.
Van Dijk told The Mirror regarding his fellow countrymen:
"The way we play, and the way they have been playing, and how they've been playing has definitely been helping them in order to get the performances they have been putting in. They are good guys; they are level-headed, work hard each and every day and want to improve. They are exceptional players in my eyes and can only get better."
Gakpo, 25, joined Liverpool from PSV Eindhoven in January 2023 for £35 million. He was in and out of Jurgen Klopp's team last season but has been one of Slot's shining stars this season.
The forward has managed seven goals and two assists in 19 games across competitions. He was on target in the Reds' 2-0 win over reigning European champions Real Madrid in the Champions League.