Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has reportedly issued a strong message to manager Arne Slot, insisting that the decision to bench Andy Robertson in the last match was a “big mistake” that should never happen again.
According to dressing-room sources, Van Dijk was left shocked when he learned that Robertson, one of Liverpool’s most experienced and consistent performers, had been dropped to the bench. The Dutch defender is said to have expressed his disappointment after the game, pointing out that the team lacked Robertson’s intensity, leadership and attacking drive on the left side.
Van Dijk, who rarely speaks publicly about managerial decisions, is believed to have told close teammates that Liverpool “paid the price” for leaving the Scottish left-back out of the starting XI. He reportedly conveyed his stance to Slot as well, stressing that players with Robertson’s level of influence should not be left out without a “very strong reason.”
Insiders claim the Liverpool captain made it clear that Robertson brings balance, communication and stability to the defence — qualities the team has struggled with during their recent inconsistent run.
A source close to the squad said:
“Virgil respects Slot, but he felt Robertson should never have been benched. He made it clear that decisions like this can’t happen again, especially in big games.”
With tensions rising inside the camp and results under pressure, Van Dijk’s warning is expected to spark further conversations about the direction of the team and the key players Liverpool cannot afford to overlook.
For now, fans will be watching closely to see how Slot responds — and whether Robertson returns straight to the starting lineup in the next match.