Szoboszlai: Klopp was “the 12th man” while Slot is “more calm” at Liverpool | OneFootball

Dominik Szoboszlai’s Journey at Liverpool: Insights from Men In Blazers

Liverpool’s midfield maestro, Dominik Szoboszlai, recently joined Rog Bennett on Men In Blazers, offering deep insights into his footballing journey, new goals, and what it’s like playing under Liverpool’s new manager, Arne Slot. Szoboszlai, a key player for the Reds, discusses the contrasting styles of Jurgen Klopp and Arne Slot, the tattoo that connects him to the club, and his aspirations for the future.

Szoboszlai’s Love for Liverpool and Steven Gerrard’s Influence

From a young age, Szoboszlai admired Liverpool, particularly their icon, Steven Gerrard. The Hungarian star has a tattoo inspired by a famous Gerrard quote: “Talent is a blessing from God, but without incredible will and humility, it’s worthless.” Szoboszlai revealed that the tattoo holds personal significance, pushing him through difficult moments. He shared a story about winning a fitness test during his time at RB Salzburg, determined to earn the tattoo: “I just ran until I couldn’t do it anymore and I won.”

Szoboszlai’s journey from RB Salzburg to Liverpool has been shaped by his admiration for the club and its history, making his arrival in 2023 particularly special. “Liverpool is one of the biggest teams,” he said, recalling how watching their finals as a child left a lasting impression. Now, wearing Gerrard’s iconic number 8, Szoboszlai aims to carve his own legacy.

Transition from Jurgen Klopp to Arne Slot

The discussion turned to the managerial shift at Liverpool, with Arne Slot replacing Jurgen Klopp in May 2024. Szoboszlai provided intriguing insights into how the playing style has evolved under Slot. While Klopp’s energetic, gegenpressing approach was successful, Slot’s system allows more creative freedom for players like Szoboszlai. “Now we are more on the ball, more calm,” Szoboszlai explained, emphasising that under Slot, midfielders have “time to think what to do.”

Jurgen Klopp’s energy on the sidelines was also a topic of discussion. Szoboszlai noted that Klopp was like a “12th man” on the pitch, constantly in motion and pushing his players. In contrast, Slot maintains a calmer presence: “He just stands there with a very calm demeanour,” Szoboszlai said, adding that Slot’s style gives the players confidence that their game plan will work out if executed properly.

Lessons from Erling Haaland and Personal Goals

Szoboszlai also touched on his relationship with Manchester City star Erling Haaland, who was his teammate at RB Salzburg. Despite being only three months older, Szoboszlai described Haaland as feeling “three years older” due to his maturity and leadership. Szoboszlai credits Haaland with giving him valuable advice throughout their time together, helping him develop as a player.

As for Szoboszlai’s own goals, they remain ambitious. Having achieved many childhood dreams – playing in the Premier League, captaining Hungary, and hearing the Champions League anthem – Szoboszlai now sets his sights even higher. “Of course, I want to win the Premier League with Liverpool, and I want to win the Champions League as well,” he stated. His dedication and drive echo the same determination that led him to secure that tattoo years ago.

Reflecting on Szoboszlai’s Growth

Szoboszlai’s story is one of relentless ambition, determination, and growth. From the drills set by his father at the age of three to captaining Hungary at just 22, his journey is a testament to hard work. When asked what advice he’d give to his younger self, Szoboszlai didn’t hesitate: “The hardest thing is mentally… to leave your parents, your friends… and to be in another country without knowing the language.”

As Szoboszlai continues to make his mark at Liverpool, his ambitions align with the club’s rich history and legacy. Under Arne Slot’s new system, his creativity and vision are flourishing, and his focus on winning the Premier League and Champions League makes him a key player for the Reds’ future success.