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The Reds secured the Premier League championship in the previous season during manager Arne Slot's inaugural tenure; however, their strong start to the 2025-26 season with five consecutive victories has since diminished.
They recently endured their fourth straight league defeat against Brentford, and after this setback, ex-England and Manchester United striker Rooney remarked that Van Dijk and his fellow player Mohamed Salah have not effectively "led that team this season."
"I didn't hear him last year," Van Dijk mentioned afterward, following Liverpool's win against Aston Villa on Saturday that halted their downward trend.
"It does not affect me. To address this particular player, who is, of course, a legend and a significant figure in the sport who has motivated so many, I can only say positive things. However, I consider that remark to be somewhat of a lazy critique.
"It is simple to point fingers at other players, yet he understands that we are all in this together, working to assist one another in overcoming these challenges. When things were going well last year, those comments weren't made. It is what it is.
"Analysts have to perform their role. He shares his viewpoint, and we must handle it. I hold no resentment. I don’t take it to heart."
In his recent podcast, Rooney acknowledged that Van Dijk has been among the finest defenders globally for the past five years, yet he stands by his earlier remarks.
"I have complete respect for Virgil. He is an exceptional player," he stated.
"My responsibility as a pundit now is to express my thoughts on what I perceive.
"If you were to ask him or Arne Slot, he likely would agree he hasn't performed at the same level as in the preceding years. That was my stance, and I maintain it."
Liverpool currently sits third in the Premier League, trailing leaders Arsenal by seven points as they approach two critical matches this week.
Slot's team is set to host Real Madrid in the Champions League on Tuesday, followed by a visit to Manchester City in the Premier League on Sunday.
"I've also heard the speculation regarding [Slot] facing pressure, but I don’t believe we are part of a club that makes hasty decisions," Van Dijk added.
"We all share the belief that we can work our way out of this situation. While there are no guarantees, we can achieve it together. As long as we maintain faith, remain humble, and continue to put in the effort, we can succeed, and we all share that conviction."
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