Liverpool continued their strong start to the season by defeating Real Madrid 2-0 in the Champions League, further boosting optimism among their supporters.
The win at Anfield on Wednesday secured their place in the next round, with Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo scoring the goals. This victory also put Liverpool at the top of both the Premier League and Champions League tables.
Despite both teams missing several key players, Liverpool adapted better to their absentees, earning their 17th win in 19 matches under manager Arne Slot.
The team’s impressive form makes them the first club to secure a spot in the next round of the Champions League, though they have not yet guaranteed a top-eight finish, which would help them avoid the play-off round.
For Liverpool fans, the excitement could intensify even more with news that captain Virgil van Dijk is set to sign a new contract. Van Dijk, 33, is one of three important players—along with Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold—whose current deals expire at the end of the season.
Although there had been speculation about his potential departure after six successful years at the club, reports suggest he is now on the verge of extending his stay at Anfield.
Though Van Dijk could negotiate a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs in January, sources claim his agent has informed interested parties that he is no longer available.
It is now considered a formality that Van Dijk will sign a new deal, with some reports even suggesting it may already be finalized but not yet publicly announced.
Last month, Van Dijk remained calm about his future, stating that he is enjoying his football and would address his contract situation later in the season.