The Reds went into Thursday’s match at Etihad Stadium looking to extend their unbeaten record in the Premier League this season to 21 matches and stretch their lead at the top of the table.
Things, though, did not go to plan, with goals from Sergio Aguero and Leroy Sane either side of Roberto Firmino’s equaliser earning a hard-fought 2-1 victory for the hosts that moved them to within four points of Jürgen Klopp’s league leaders.
Van Dijk, however, is certain that Liverpool’s response to the setback will be positive.
“Disappointed that we lost, that is really obvious. [But] we're four points clear, that is the main thing,” said the centre-back.
“Obviously the media has been making this game as big as ever but for us it was just another very important Premier League game. We knew it was going to be a very tough season and there will be ups and downs.
“Here there was obviously a down but we have to keep going, keep bouncing back and that is something we are definitely going to do.
“We just have to keep going. We will focus on recovering and make sure we are ready for the next game.”