Image: theScore

Liverpool Captain Van Dijk Apologizes, Admits Team Gave Up After 4-0 Defeat

05 April, 2026.Sports.12 sources

Key Takeaways

Liverpool were eliminated from the FA Cup quarter-final after a 4-0 defeat by Manchester City.
Captain Virgil van Dijk apologised to fans and admitted the team 'gave up'.
Haaland scored a hat-trick and Semenyo added a goal as City reached the semi-finals.

Van Dijk Apologizes

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk issued a blunt apology after the Reds were dismantled 4-0 by Manchester City.

“Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has apologised to the club's supporters and said his side "gave up" as they were dumped out of the FA Cup by Manchester City”

BBC

Van Dijk said his side gave up and that they let their fans down, themselves, and the manager.

BBC

The defeat leaves Liverpool's hopes of silverware resting solely on the Champions League.

Haaland Hat-Trick

Erling Haaland scored a hat-trick in an 18-minute blitz that spanned the interval.

Haaland's penalty came after a Van Dijk foul on Nico O'Reilly.

ESPN

City maintained their bid for a second domestic treble.

Pressure Mounts on Slot

The crushing defeat intensifies pressure on Arne Slot.

“ReactionArne Slot press conference: Verdict on Manchester City 4-0 Liverpool Read every word from Arne Slot’s reaction to Liverpool’s 4-0 loss against Manchester City in the Emirates FA Cup”