Liverpool legend reveals ‘frustration’ over this Liverpool star vs Galatasaray | OneFootball

Phil Thompson calls out Szoboszlai after frustrating Galatasaray display

Liverpool’s Champions League trip to Galatasaray highlighted ongoing concerns about form and consistency, with one senior figure left unimpressed by Dominik Szoboszlai’s set-piece delivery.

Liverpool’s momentum slipping away

Liverpool’s bright start to the campaign, built on a flurry of late goals, has begun to unravel in recent weeks. Performances have dipped below the high standards set at Anfield, and patience among supporters is being tested.

Arne Slot’s side arrived in Istanbul under pressure to respond, but instead struggled to impose themselves. Despite seeing plenty of possession, Liverpool lacked the precision to turn territory into chances, a pattern that has become worryingly familiar this season.

Phil Thompson unimpressed with Szoboszlai

Former Liverpool captain Phil Thompson did not hold back in his assessment of Szoboszlai’s display against Galatasaray. Speaking on the club’s official podcast, he highlighted repeated failings from corner situations.

“I think it’s a good point, you need to put them on the money all the time,” Thompson said. “If I can remember the first three corners, I don’t think Dominik got them past the first man, which was frustrating. Then from the other side, there was one where Ibrahima Konaté should have been glancing it – he got a full forehead on it instead. It was just 27 crosses. You’ve got to be doing better if you want more chances to score.”

It is a significant shift in perception. Only weeks ago, Szoboszlai was being praised as a revelation by his peers. His versatility has seen him deployed in multiple positions – even at right-back early in the season – but his recent output has dropped, leaving questions over his most effective role in Slot’s system.

Galatasaray defeat raises tactical concerns

Liverpool’s lack of clarity in attack was underlined in Istanbul. Despite sending in dozens of balls from wide areas, there was little end product. The Turkish champions grew in confidence as the match progressed, exploiting Liverpool’s inability to sustain pressure.

While Szoboszlai was singled out for his corners, the wider issue remains structural. Slot’s midfield rotation has yet to establish control, and the defensive line continues to look vulnerable. Konaté’s struggles are emblematic of a unit that has lost assurance, with Liverpool repeatedly unable to protect slender leads.

Chelsea test arrives at crucial moment

Attention now turns to Stamford Bridge, where Chelsea await. Enzo Maresca’s side are far from flawless, but Liverpool cannot afford another slip. The absence of Cole Palmer through injury is a boost, yet the threat of Joao Pedro and a home crowd expecting progress make it a stern examination.

For Liverpool, the challenge is twofold: rediscovering their rhythm in possession while tightening up defensively. Slot will be under pressure to adjust quickly. Thompson’s words serve as a reminder that small margins, such as the quality of a corner, can be decisive at this level.

Liverpool’s season is not yet in crisis, but the warning signs are clear. Without sharper execution and a return to form from key figures like Szoboszlai, nights like the one in Galatasaray may become an all-too-frequent reality.