Van Dijk questions VAR after Liverpool are denied penalty against Arsenal

Virgil van Dijk expressed his frustration with the officials after Liverpool suffered a 1-0 defeat to Arsenal at Anfield, questioning why VAR did not intervene in a controversial penalty incident involving Alexander Isak.

The key moment came in the first half when Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber appeared to pull Isak's shirt as the Liverpool striker attempted to reach a cross inside the penalty area. Referee Andy Madley allowed play to continue, while VAR also decided against recommending an on-field review.

Van Dijk was convinced that Liverpool should have been awarded a spot-kick. Speaking after the match, the Dutch defender said he had watched the incident again and had seen similar challenges punished in other games.

"I think it was also a clear penalty. I've seen it back, yes. And I've seen it given as well on other occasions. Today it wasn't meant to be," the Liverpool captain explained.

He was particularly critical of the lack of intervention from the video officials, pointing to the number of camera angles available to review the incident.

"The VAR doesn't notice it? There are 50 cameras. Even more. Why does he have to complain when there are so many cameras? It is spotted because everyone's seen it," Van Dijk said.

The defender also admitted that the defeat was disappointing, believing Liverpool could have done more during the closing stages to create chances and put Arsenal under greater pressure. He acknowledged that his team had enjoyed spells of dominance but ultimately failed to find an equaliser.

Van Dijk's comments added to the post-match debate surrounding the decision, with Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola also describing the incident as a clear penalty. Arsenal, meanwhile, held on to Kai Havertz's first-half goal to secure a significant 1-0 victory at Anfield.