Liverpool ended 2025 with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Anfield, but the win was overshadowed by captain Virgil van Dijk's candid admission of ongoing defensive issues.
Goals from Florian Wirtz and Ryan Gravenberch secured the three points for Arne Slot's side, moving them into fourth place in the Premier League table. The result provided a positive end to a year that saw a promising start of five consecutive wins followed by a disappointing slump.
Van Dijk's frank assessment of Liverpool's weaknesses
Speaking after the final whistle, Virgil van Dijk revealed that serious talks have been held within the squad regarding their vulnerability at set-pieces and overall game management. The problem was glaringly evident against Wolves when Santiago Bueno scored directly from a corner.
"There have been plenty of games when we have defended them very well. But the fact is we've conceded too many set-piece goals and we don't score enough," the Dutch defender stated. He pinpointed the second phase of play as the primary culprit in over 75% of the goals conceded from dead-ball situations.
Van Dijk dismissed suggestions of a mental block but emphasised collective responsibility. "Each and every one of us has to take responsibility. It's always going to be on the players... It's not been good enough. We all realise that," he added, confirming the issue is a focal point in almost every training session.
Arne Slot highlights Frimpong's key attribute
While defensive concerns linger, manager Arne Slot found a major positive in the performance of summer signing Jeremie Frimpong. The wing-back, who has been hampered by injuries since his arrival, provided a crucial assist against Wolves, following another in the previous match against Tottenham.
Slot specifically highlighted Frimpong's explosive pace as a vital weapon for his team. "Pace, that is what he has. And that is so important and crucial in modern day football," the Liverpool boss explained.
He argued that against deep-lying defences, such speed is often the only way to break through, especially for a side that does not consider set-pieces its biggest strength. Slot also noted the unfortunate injury absences of other pacey signings like Alex Isak and Giovanni Leoni, which have limited his tactical options.
Looking ahead to Leeds United
The Reds now turn their attention to their first fixture of 2026, a home match against Leeds United on New Year's Day. Despite sitting 10 points behind league leaders Arsenal, Liverpool will be hoping to build momentum.
They face a Leeds side that, after a poor run, had put together a four-match unbeaten streak in the Premier League before facing Sunderland. The challenge for Slot will be to solidify his defence while harnessing the attacking threat posed by players like Frimpong, as Liverpool aims to close the gap at the top of the table.
