Van Dijk Sidelined: The Real Reason Liverpool's Captain Misses Both Athletic Club Clashes

Virgil van Dijk's absence from Monday's preseason double-header against Athletic Club was notable, though the Netherlands captain isn't anticipated to be sidelined for an extended period according to manager Arne Slot's latest team update.

Before kickoff, Slot provided information regarding four important players who were unavailable for the matches: Alisson, Joe Gomez, Conor Bradley and Van Dijk. "Sadly, Virgil is unwell today," Slot explained.

"We're without Alisson. Joe Gomez isn't available, Conor Bradley isn't available either. However, up to this point we've maintained the fitness levels we desired and our new additions have settled in, adapting to our requirements. We're focused primarily on today's match and then the upcoming weeks."

This comes as welcome news for Liverpool supporters considering Van Dijk's crucial role in their Premier League title pursuit and competing across multiple competitions. The illness isn't thought to be serious as Slot anticipates Van Dijk's return for the FA Community Shield opener against Crystal Palace and Liverpool's season debut versus Bournemouth.

Alisson is likewise expected to return in time for competitive fixtures, although the manager highlighted scheduling concerns for Bradley and Gomez. "The timing will be challenging."

Liverpool triumphed over Athletic Club using a rotated lineup that included young talents like Rio Ngumoha in the opening match. The Merseyside club scored four goals against their Spanish opponents before fielding a more veteran squad featuring summer acquisitions such as Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong.