Dominik Szoboszlai: From Criticised to Crucial | OneFootball

Is Dominik Szoboszlai Integral to Success?

Following multiple games this season, it appears that certain sections of the Liverpool fanbase are intent on finding fault with one individual within the squad. In years gone by, we have seen the likes of Jordan Henderson, Darwin Núñez, and Ryan Gravenberch, criticised for their lack of elite level output whilst adorning the fabled red jersey. In the cases of those three assets, there was of course justification in certain performances, however, in the case of Gravenberch, there has been a notable uplift that has turned last season’s doubters into unconditional believers.

Given the early campaign emergence of the Dutch midfielder and the limited appearances of the Uruguay centre forward, Darwin Nunez, it has apparently created an opening for another player to be openly questioned by supporters. I find such critique unwarranted, especially given that much of the early season unhappiness has been aimed at the Hungarian skipper, Dominik Szoboszlai.

How Has The role of Dominik Szoboszlai Altered This Season?

Though the makeup of this newly coached team is not entirely dissimilar from last season’s version, it is probably the midfield trio which has been adjusted and refined the most. During the 2023/24 campaign, the former RB Leipzig attacking midfielder, Dom, transitioned into the box-to-box role that was once occupied by the former Liverpool captain, Jordan Henderson. The athletic requirements and in game intelligence of the reds new no.8 meant that in the early part of last season, the £60m capture was able to revel in the demands of that specific role. Inevitably, there was a drop off in form by the Hungarian superstar, as his physical acumen was taken advantage of, something which culminated in a dip in performance after Christmas.

Under new leadership and with the guidance of his new Head Coach, Arne Slot, the 23-year-old asset has been shifted to a more central position as the team’s primary attacking midfielder. This position is more commonly known as the no.10, which is utilized within a 4-2-3-1 shape of play.

The historical requirements to excel in this area, usually demand a less dynamic individual and a more fluid creator. The former Feyenoord manager, Slot, has full confidence in the 47-cap Hungary international as a first team regular to date. Despite the player in question being closer to the forward line this term, there is still a massive requirement to track back and press when the reds lose possession, therefore, a more unique specimen is now being built to become equal parts offensive and defensive.

The rampaging attributes of the 6ft 1inch player are perhaps perfect for what is being asked, as many fail to see the off-ball efforts that are be displayed. This is a role far removed from the days of Mesut Özil, or Juan Mata, who would act exclusively as offensive weapons, whilst loitering higher up the pitch whenever their team lost the ball.

In the case of the reds own version of the so called ‘no.10’, Szoboszlai is quickly becoming a version of what the team and Head Coach needs, instead of what the fanbase expects. The intricate design of all working parts is to be progressive and intelligent on the ball, whilst maintaining discipline and work rate off it.

Photo: IMAGO

The goal contributions that I fully expect will increase in time, however, with one goal and three assists across 715 minutes thus far, that represents a solid return for a new system and new methods. A goal contribution every 179 minutes must be weighed across the heavy lifting that is being undertaken when not in possession of the ball, which is why the impatient fanbase must look at the bigger picture, rather than look for fault, especially when it simply is not there.