“Very sloppy and arrogant from Van Dijk” — Ex-City star blasts

In the aftermath of Liverpool’s 3-1 defeat to Arsenal in the Premier League on Sunday, former Manchester City defender Gael Clichy has pointed the finger at Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk for a lackluster performance from the Liverpool team.

Clichy, analyzing the match, expressed his criticism of Van Dijk, citing instances of sloppiness and arrogance during the encounter against Mikel Arteta’s side.

Despite Arsenal securing the victory at Emirates Stadium with goals from Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Leandro Trossard, attention was drawn to a moment of miscommunication between Van Dijk and Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker.

The misjudged clearance by Becker presented Martinelli with an open goal, contributing to Arsenal’s success in the match. Clichy, speaking on Sky Sports, remarked,

“When a team dominates a game like this, you are always going to question whether they were that good if Liverpool were that poor. I can’t remember Liverpool playing that poorly.”

The former defender specifically highlighted Van Dijk’s uncharacteristic performance, describing him as “very sloppy” and pointing out moments of overconfidence.

Clichy emphasized his surprise at Van Dijk’s challenge that led to the second goal, stating,

“That challenge for the second goal you don’t expect from someone of his status.”