The Liverpool captain believes the Spaniard is gradually establishing his principles at Anfield, but accepts the players are still learning how to execute the new approach consistently.
Iraola took charge during the summer with the intention of bringing greater intensity back to Liverpool's game. The team have collected 15 points from their opening eight Premier League matches, as the manager looks to move away from the more controlled style associated with the previous regime.
Van Dijk acknowledged that the tactical shift represents a different challenge for the squad, particularly after several seasons under Jürgen Klopp and Arne Slot.
"I think it is a different era, different times. Under Jürgen, we pressed a lot by shifting across with the ball, trying to force opponents towards one side, but football has changed," the defender said.
"So it is different, but what has not changed is the amount of sprints and running, and trying to win the ball back as quickly as possible."
The Netherlands international believes Liverpool must retain the ability to play through opposition pressure, while also recognising when a more direct approach is required. The captain suggested that finding the right balance between those options is one of the main challenges during the transition.
"You have to find the right balance because I feel that we can still play through the press, but we can also go direct and, at home, sometimes you have to."
Van Dijk also explained that Iraola wants his side to create difficult situations for opponents through second balls, physical contests and aggressive pressing. Those elements are becoming increasingly important as Liverpool attempt to make their new identity more natural.
"You have to try to create this chaos, second balls, battles, and that is what we are still learning," he added.
The defender's comments underline that the adjustment is not simply about running more or pressing higher. Liverpool must make decisions collectively, recognising when to commit players forward and when to protect the space left behind.
Under Klopp, the team developed a distinctive pressing structure, while Slot subsequently introduced a more controlled approach. Iraola's football requires a different interpretation of intensity, with players expected to be aggressive without losing their organisation.
Van Dijk's assessment suggests the squad are not yet at the point where those demands have become second nature. The captain nevertheless believes the principles are taking hold, with the players continuing to develop their understanding of when to press, when to go direct and how to compete for the second ball.
For Liverpool, the next step is turning that learning process into a consistent performance level. Van Dijk's message is that the team must be capable of combining the technical quality to play through pressure with the physical commitment required to win the ball back quickly.