Arne Slot, the manager of Liverpool, did not hold back in praising Hungarian midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai, referring to him as “close to ridiculous” in terms of quality, ahead of the important FA Cup clash against Brighton. The statement was made during a press conference at the AXA Training Centre, where Slot emphasized the decisive influence Szoboszlai has had on the team.
Szoboszlai’s absence in the 1-0 victory over Sunderland, due to a suspension, was felt acutely, particularly regarding the team’s energy and pressing intensity. “I can’t stop talking about his qualities,” Slot stated, highlighting the player’s importance: “Close to ridiculous, both with the ball and without it, his work rate is on another level. He presses incredibly, has exceptional technique, remarkable vision, and can play as an attacking midfielder, right-back, or winger. All these qualities make him a vital asset for us, both this season and last. He will continue to be fundamental.”
These statements highlight the central role that Szoboszlai occupies in Liverpool’s structure, both in ball possession and recovery. This season in the Premier League, the 25-year-old has played 24 matches, accumulating 2,153 minutes on the pitch, with an average of 90 minutes per game, according to Sofascore. The Hungarian has contributed four goals, exceeding the expected tally of 3.56, and scored three direct free-kicks from ten attempts, while creating five big chances, maintaining an impressive passing accuracy rate of 88%.
Szoboszlai’s intensity and defensive work numbers corroborate Slot’s praise. With an average of 1.5 tackles per game, 5.2 ball recoveries, and 3.6 duels won per match, it is clear why his pressing is such an important trigger in Liverpool’s playing system. Former Reds captain Steven Gerrard has also weighed in, suggesting that Szoboszlai would “probably surpass” Florian Wirtz in the race for Player of the Season, demonstrating the high regard in which the player is held outside the club’s structure.
Slot’s mention of the right-back and winger was not a random choice. Former player Paul Merson argued that Szoboszlai is the best available option for the right-back position, especially when injuries limit alternatives, revealing the confidence placed in his tactical understanding and physical ability. The midfielder combines technical quality with defensive responsibility, averaging 84.1 touches per game and 1.8 key passes, while continuing to contribute defensively in various phases of the game.
Although not without its mistakes – including two errors that resulted in shots and a red card this season – the overall picture is one of reliability and production across the 24 league matches. With Liverpool currently in sixth place in the Premier League, accumulating 42 points and chasing Champions League spots, Szoboszlai’s consistency will be crucial in the coming weeks.
Arne Slot’s statements make it clear that Dominik Szoboszlai is not just another midfielder in the team, but rather one of the tactical cornerstones, valued for his intensity, intelligence, and versatility. Liverpool’s future may depend significantly on the performance of this talented player.
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