Virgil van Dijk lifted the Premier League trophy after Liverpool’s 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace on Sunday, as the team celebrated their title win with fans at Anfield for the first time in 35 years.
Virgil Van Dijk Leads Trophy Celebration at Anfield
Liverpool, now led by manager Arne Slot, had already secured their 20th English league title after a big win over Tottenham in April. But the trophy presentation was saved for the final match of the season.
When Liverpool last won the title in 2020, it was during the COVID-19 pandemic, so captain Jordan Henderson lifted the trophy in an empty stadium.
This time, with a full crowd of 61,000 fans at Anfield, Liverpool enjoyed a long-awaited title party, joined by legends from the club’s rich history.
“It’s always special to win something, but at certain clubs maybe a little bit more,” Slot said.
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“I don’t think you expect anything like this. If you look at the Premier League in the last few seasons it was always a race to the end.
“To be part of it was already nice, let alone to win it.”
Alan Hansen Hands Over the Silverware
Alan Hansen, who captained Liverpool in their last title win at a full Anfield in 1990, handed the Premier League trophy to current captain Virgil van Dijk.
Watching from the stands were former manager Kenny Dalglish and Jurgen Klopp, who led Liverpool to the 2020 title.
Anfield was filled with fireworks, smoke, and red confetti as players paraded the trophy. Banners and flags waved across the famous Kop stand.
Trent Alexander-Arnold, set to join Real Madrid after his contract ends in June, was cheered by fans in his final game. He had been booed earlier in the month but got a warm farewell this time. Tearfully, he kissed the badge as he came on.
“I’ve played hundreds of games for the club but I’ve never felt so loved and cared for than today,” he said.
Liverpool hadn’t won any games since securing the title, but the mood was still festive. Before kickoff, Palace gave them a guard of honour, and Liverpool returned the gesture for the FA Cup winners.
Palace’s Ismaila Sarr scored early, and Liverpool’s Ryan Gravenberch was sent off in the second half. But Mohamed Salah equalized in the 84th minute. His 29th goal this season tied the record for most goal involvements and earned him the Golden Boot for the fourth time.
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“It’s incredible. Last time we did not have the chance to lift the trophy in front of the Kop. Today we have the chance,” said Salah.
“It is an incredible feeling. Winning the second one with the fans in Anfield, you can see what it means.”
After lifting the trophy, the team sang ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ together. The celebrations will continue with a trophy parade through Liverpool on Monday.
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