Liverpool have a strong home record in UEFA competition, having won their last 14 home games in both the Champions League and Europa League, and the Premier League leaders will hope to continue this form heading into the match.

Van Dijk discussed the team's summer signing, Alexander Isak, who has not played any club football so far this season and is still adapting to the squad.

"I've had a very good impression of Alexander. He's very eager, and his quality has been showing since the first session," Van Dijk said.

"Only positives, not just on the pitch but also off it. We're having conversations, and I've spoken to him during the international break. It's now about getting him as fit as possible and to understand each one of us as quickly as possible," he added.

Van Dijk also spoke about the importance of adding depth to the squad, with Isak potentially bringing a new level of quality to the team.

"It's not just about adding depth, it's about replacing players who left the team. We had to replace players who were very important to us, and we had a lot of success with them. But it comes with a price tag, and we have no control over that," Van Dijk explained.

He emphasized the importance of Isak and his strike partner, Hugo Ekitike, working hard and supporting the team, rather than getting caught up in external pressures.

"I'm glad we have Alexander and Hugo on our side. They're both clinical finishers, very comfortable on the ball, and have pace. They're a handful, and it's good that they're on our side now," Van Dijk said.

Finally, Van Dijk spoke about the intense history between Liverpool and Atletico Madrid, with the two teams facing each other for the first time since 2021.

"We have a lot of respect for Atletico, they have world-class players and a world-class manager. They work very hard, and they'll never give up. We have to be ready for tomorrow," Van Dijk concluded.

Van Dijk's team will need to be prepared for a tough match against a determined Atletico side.