Szoboszlai Honest About Brighton Goal as Liverpool Eye Next Season | OneFootball

Szoboszlai’s Strike Sparks Reflection as Liverpool Set Away Goal Record

Brighton defeat adds reality check after title high

Fresh from clinching the Premier League title, Liverpool’s return to domestic action ended in frustration as they were beaten 3-2 by Brighton & Hove Albion. Arne Slot’s side, brimming with confidence after a triumphant campaign, led 2-1 at the break but saw the Seagulls fight back in impressive fashion. Brighton’s ambition for a top-eight finish was clear, and their comeback was fuelled by a Liverpool side that lacked the clinical edge to finish the job.

Despite the defeat, there was a moment of note that ensured Liverpool’s name will remain in the record books. With Dominik Szoboszlai among the scorers, Liverpool became the first team in their history to score in every single league away fixture in a top-flight campaign. It was a small glimmer of satisfaction on an otherwise sobering evening.

Liverpool, England, 11th May 2025. Dominik Szoboszlai of Liverpool applauds fans at full time following the Liverpool vs Arsenal Premier League match at Anfield, Liverpool. Picture credit should read: Cody Froggatt / Sportimage EDITORIAL USE ONLY. No use with unauthorised audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or live services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications. SPI_066_CF_LIVERPOOL_V_ARSENAL SPI-3930-0065

Szoboszlai’s honesty after surprise strike

Szoboszlai’s goal raised eyebrows not for its technique, but for its apparent fluke nature. The Hungarian, who has shown flashes of brilliance throughout the season, later admitted the finish was not as intentional as it looked.

Speaking to Premier League Productions, he explained, “It was a cross, to be honest. I’m not going to lie. I’m happy to score, and happy to help the team.”

It was the kind of moment that both endears a player to fans and invites scrutiny. For a midfielder hailed for his creativity and long-range efforts, such a candid admission served to highlight both his honesty and the current scrutiny on his performances.

Calls for consistency from Liverpool’s No. 8

Robbie Keane’s recent comments urging Szoboszlai to step up his impact were timely. While the 24-year-old has had moments of influence, he has yet to fully stamp his authority on Liverpool’s midfield. His numbers, when placed against expectations for a player of his technical and athletic calibre, have underwhelmed. That said, he remains a trusted figure in Slot’s system, one that has delivered a title in the Dutchman’s debut season at Anfield.

But consistency is key. Szoboszlai’s ability to contribute regularly with goals and assists will be crucial if he is to hold down a starting place, particularly as competition intensifies in Liverpool’s engine room.

Focus on double digits next season

Looking ahead, Szoboszlai is well aware of what’s expected. With just one match remaining, there’s a real possibility that he could hit double figures for both goals and assists across all competitions. Crystal Palace’s visit to Anfield may yet offer that final flourish. But for a player of his ability, waiting until the final fixture to reach such a milestone feels underwhelming.

Next season must be different. The Hungarian will need to deliver earlier and more often if he’s to elevate his game and justify his spot in a midfield trio that could evolve rapidly. With Liverpool already champions and planning for more success under Slot, Szoboszlai’s evolution could prove central to their future ambitions.