Virgil van Dijk discusses the impact of Arne Slot’s influence, positioning Liverpool as strong contenders for the title.

Liverpool moved five points clear at the top of the Premier League with their win over Aston Villa on Saturday, despite being considered unlikely title contenders at the start of the season.

In the mixed zone at Anfield, near the players’ tunnel, Virgil van Dijk reflected on Liverpool’s shortcomings last season. Standing in the same spot after Saturday’s victory, the question now was whether this Liverpool side could go all the way. Given they kept pace with Manchester City and Arsenal until mid-April last season, it’s not a huge leap to imagine them finishing ahead this time.

Following Jurgen Klopp’s departure, few expected Liverpool to be in the title race this season. Opta’s predictions gave them only a 5.1 percent chance. Yet, Arne Slot has settled in seamlessly as head coach, and Liverpool’s impressive form — winning nine of 11 games — now sees them five points clear of City after Darwin Nunez and Mo Salah scored to defeat Villa.

In the summer, Van Dijk cited a lack of experience, quality, and some bad luck with injuries as reasons for Liverpool’s dip last season. Months later, he spoke on how they’ve addressed these issues: “We should have learned from last year… We’re only in November but I see us dealing with difficult moments pretty well… The mentality of the boys to turn it around was amazing.”

When asked if Liverpool could win the title, Van Dijk added, “I can’t predict how the last part of the season will go. But so far, so good… I just want to enjoy it.”

The evidence now seems to favor Liverpool. Those who needed experience got a taste of a title race last season. While Liverpool didn’t make big signings, players like Ryan Gravenberch, Ibrahima Konate, and Curtis Jones have stepped up. Mo Salah, who recently reached 10 goals and 10 assists, is playing for a new contract along with Van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold, all putting in strong performances each week.

Liverpool’s current points tally is four higher than last season after 11 games, while City’s is four points lower. This season’s title race might not demand a record-breaking points total, especially with Arsenal still finding their form. Even Villa, despite the loss, are four points down compared to last year.

Slot’s experience in dethroning giants, as he did with Feyenoord in 2023, adds to Liverpool’s credibility as contenders. There’s still a long way to go, with 27 games left, but Liverpool has shown they’re capable of winning this league. Whether they will or not, though, will only be answered in May.