Opinion: Szoboszlai is the one Liverpool should rally round | OneFootball

Szoboszlai Emerging as Liverpool’s Vital Leader in Testing Times

Liverpool’s turbulent spell under Arne Slot has highlighted one clear truth: Dominik Szoboszlai is fast becoming the heartbeat of this side, according to Gareth Knight on TBF Football. Amidst inconsistency, tactical reshuffles, and mounting scrutiny, the Hungarian midfielder has emerged as a symbol of intensity and professionalism – a player whose influence is starting to transcend mere performances.

Szoboszlai’s Leadership Amidst Struggle

Saturday’s 3-2 defeat to Brentford marked Liverpool’s fourth consecutive Premier League loss – an unthinkable sequence for last season’s champions. Yet, while others faltered at the Gtech Community Stadium, Szoboszlai stood out with a display that combined grit, creativity, and relentless energy.

Deployed alongside Curtis Jones and a subdued Florian Wirtz, the former RB Leipzig star took control of the midfield. His pressing was sharp, his distribution assured, and his commitment unquestionable. It was Szoboszlai’s driving run and incisive passing that paved the way for Mohamed Salah’s late consolation, a reminder that he remains one of the few players maintaining elite standards in this difficult period.

In a team still searching for rhythm and cohesion following a busy summer of high-profile arrivals, Szoboszlai’s leadership – both in attitude and application – has become invaluable. While others are adapting to Slot’s demanding style, the Hungarian has embraced it wholeheartedly.

Photo: IMAGO

Tactical Versatility Creating Mixed Outcomes

Slot’s decision to occasionally deploy Szoboszlai at right-back this season has divided opinion. While it underlines his tactical versatility, it also risks diminishing his greatest strength: controlling matches from midfield.

The 23-year-old possesses a rare blend of energy and technical precision, qualities that allow Liverpool to transition swiftly between defence and attack. However, when pushed into defensive duties, his creative influence is inevitably curtailed.

With Ryan Gravenberch currently sidelined and Alexis Mac Allister rotating in and out of the starting XI, Szoboszlai has become the anchor around which Liverpool’s midfield must stabilise. It is no coincidence that their most fluid spells under Slot have come when he operates centrally.

Time for Stability and Continuity

As Liverpool prepare for pivotal fixtures against Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Real Madrid, clarity in selection could prove essential. Youngster Conor Bradley, who has been pushing for regular minutes, may soon earn a deserved run at right-back – a move that would allow Szoboszlai to remain in his most influential role.

Restoring balance in midfield, where Szoboszlai can operate alongside Gravenberch and Mac Allister, may be key to re-establishing the dominance that defined Liverpool at their peak. In possession, his vision opens defences; off the ball, his work rate sets the tone for pressing.

Szoboszlai’s Moment to Define the Season

For Slot, consistency is now non-negotiable. And for Szoboszlai, this represents an opportunity to cement himself as one of Liverpool’s most indispensable figures. He has already shown leadership in adversity – now he must carry that influence through the recovery phase.

Liverpool’s season is far from lost, but their route back to form depends on rediscovering unity and identity. Szoboszlai, with his blend of composure and competitiveness, is perfectly placed to lead that resurgence from the centre of the pitch.