Joe Gomez Credits Virgil van Dijk for Talking Him Out of Leaving Anfield

Joe Gomez has become Liverpool’s longest-serving current squad member and has made 182 appearances for the club since his arrival in 2015. He was an integral part of the team that ended the 30-year wait for a league title in 2019/20, but long-term injuries have plagued him throughout his time on Merseyside.

In a recent interview, Gomez revealed that he had thoughts about going out on loan just two years after joining the Reds, but was talked out of it by his centre-back partner, Virgil van Dijk.

Gomez’s Early Liverpool Career

Gomez joined Liverpool from Charlton Athletic in 2015 and was initially used as a right-back by then-manager Brendan Rodgers. He made his debut in a 0-0 draw against Bournemouth and went on to make 28 appearances in all competitions during his first season at Anfield.

The following season saw Gomez make 32 appearances as he established himself as a regular in the starting line-up. However, he suffered a serious knee injury in October 2016 which ruled him out for the remainder of the season.

Van Dijk’s Influence

Van Dijk became the club’s record signing in a £75 million move from Southampton in January 2018 following failed attempts to land him the previous summer. Gomez has since struck a bond with the man who went on to become Liverpool captain and it appears that the Dutchman’s influence has been crucial from the outset.

Gomez recently revealed that he was close to leaving Anfield on loan before Van Dijk arrived, but the Dutchman’s presence convinced him to stay. He said: “Subconsciously [Van Dijk] affected me a lot. I was nearly going to go out on loan as he was going to come in the summer [of 2017], then he didn’t come.”

The pair formed a formidable defensive partnership during the title-winning season and have become good friends off the pitch as well as having great respect for one another on it. Gomez has credited Van Dijk for talking him out of leaving Anfield and said: “I’ve learned a lot from Virg off the pitch. It’s nice to have someone like that to lean upon.”

Gomez’s Recent Struggles

Gomez’s injury problems and the increased competition from the arrival of Ibrahima Konate in 2021 have made it difficult for him to secure regular football. However, he has grasped his early opportunities from the absences of others this season, registering nine appearances in all competitions already in 2023/24.

It is clear that Gomez is grateful for Van Dijk’s influence and their friendship off the pitch has been beneficial for both players. Van Dijk’s presence at Anfield has been crucial in helping Gomez stay at the club and reach his full potential as a player.