Szoboszlai Eyes Wembley Redemption as Liverpool Chase Carabao Cup Glory | OneFootball

Szoboszlai’s Wembley Vision: A Fighter Ready for Battle

Liverpool’s march to Wembley is familiar, but this time, Dominik Szoboszlai is determined to leave his mark on the pitch rather than the sidelines. Last year, injury denied him the opportunity to play as Jürgen Klopp’s depleted Reds fought their way to a dramatic extra-time triumph over Chelsea. Now, under Arne Slot, the No.8 is ready to play his part in retaining the Carabao Cup.

Redemption in Red

Missing out on the 2024 final stung, but Szoboszlai has been patient. The Hungarian midfielder, who has been an influential figure since arriving at Anfield, admitted that while he pushed to be fit, the long-term picture had to take precedence.

“I waited until the end [to see] if I’m able to play or not [last year]. I wanted to. Also I had a little pain still but I wanted to play. But then we were thinking long term. So, it’s better not to risk it for one game and be out for even longer,” he told Liverpoolfc.com.

Liverpool’s injury crisis back then meant that Szoboszlai wasn’t the only one missing out. With Trent Alexander-Arnold, Curtis Jones, Diogo Jota, Darwin Núñez, and Mohamed Salah also absent, the Reds had to rely on their Academy talents to supplement an already exhausted squad. It was a moment that showcased the club’s spirit – one that will need to be replicated once more against Newcastle United.

A Different Challenge Under New Leadership

Arne Slot’s arrival has meant fresh tactical ideas and a slightly different dynamic in midfield. Yet Szoboszlai is clear that, regardless of who gets the nod to start, Liverpool’s approach remains the same.

Photo: IMAGO

“You never know who is going to play, but it doesn’t matter on our side who is playing in midfield – everybody is ready to fight and everybody is ready to give everything for the team,” he insisted.

It’s that collective mentality that saw Liverpool through in last year’s final and will need to be the defining feature of their approach at Wembley.

Newcastle Stand in the Way

Newcastle United’s route to Wembley has been far from easy. Wins over Nottingham Forest, Chelsea, Brentford, and Arsenal prove Eddie Howe’s side is a real threat. Having faced the Magpies in the Premier League recently, Liverpool will know exactly what to expect.

Szoboszlai, who was on the scoresheet in the 2-0 victory over Newcastle in early February, understands the unique demands of a cup final.

“It’s a final, so you go in a different way into the game… But I have been in the situation also and it’s not the easiest way, but you have to keep going, you have to handle it, your time will come.”

That resilience will be key. Liverpool’s squad depth will be tested, but as last year proved, adversity often brings the best out of this team.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Liverpool fans will feel a mix of excitement and nerves ahead of Sunday’s final. While the Carabao Cup isn’t the most prestigious piece of silverware, it has often set the tone for greater success. Klopp used this competition as a launchpad for bigger things, and Slot will be hoping for the same.

The biggest concern will be squad depth. While Szoboszlai’s return is a boost, the ongoing absence of key players could have an impact. Newcastle have had their own struggles with injuries but remain a physically imposing side. Liverpool must be wary of their counter-attacking threat, especially with Alexander Isak’s ability to stretch defences.

For Szoboszlai, this game offers a chance to cement himself as a leader in this Liverpool side. He has shown flashes of brilliance, but a defining performance at Wembley could be a statement of intent for the remainder of the season. If Liverpool are to lift the trophy again, expect the Hungarian to play a key role.