Dominik Szoboszlai’s performance for Liverpool in the 2024/25 season has been a topic of debate. Assessing his contributions, particularly his goal-scoring, has proven somewhat challenging. Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has already expressed some concerns about the Hungarian international’s limited impact in terms of goals, while also praising Szoboszlai’s exceptional pressing ability. At 23, Szoboszlai has established himself as a key player in Slot’s system, but his lack of goals has raised questions about his effectiveness in a more advanced midfield role.
James Pearce, a reporter for The Athletic, echoed Slot’s sentiments during the Walk On podcast. He noted that Szoboszlai’s goal return in the previous season was disappointing, particularly for a team like Liverpool, which tends to dominate possession and create numerous chances. Pearce pointed out that Szoboszlai managed only three goals in the Premier League last season, which is relatively low for a player in his position. Considering the expectations at a club like Liverpool, it’s natural to expect more from a midfielder tasked with contributing in the final third.
In the current campaign, Szoboszlai has recorded three goal contributions in seven games, which marks some improvement but may still not be enough to silence all critics. This raises the question of whether Slot should consider benching him, particularly if his offensive output doesn’t improve.
While goals are an essential part of a player’s role in Szoboszlai’s position, his work rate and pressing game cannot be overlooked. Szoboszlai plays a crucial role in the overall function of Slot’s tactical system, and replacing him might lead to a decrease in the team’s pressing intensity. For instance, Harvey Elliott, another option in midfield, may offer more of a goal-scoring threat, but there’s no guarantee that he would provide the same level of defensive contribution and pressure on the opposition.
Curtis Jones is another player who could be considered for more minutes. He replaced Szoboszlai in the second half during a recent match against Wolves and performed well. However, it’s difficult to see Jones replacing other in-form players like Ryan Gravenberch or Alexis Mac Allister. Both have been performing at a high level, making the midfield competition even tougher.
There’s also a lingering doubt about the short-term future of the No.10 role at Liverpool. Szoboszlai’s miss from close range against Crystal Palace’s goalkeeper Sam Johnstone is a moment that still haunts him, as it was a key opportunity to help quiet the criticisms surrounding his goal-scoring ability. Such chances need to be taken, especially given the pressure on attacking midfielders to contribute more than just pressing and defensive work.
It seems unlikely that Slot will drop Szoboszlai for the upcoming league clash against Crystal Palace, though a midweek rest could be on the cards. Szoboszlai’s pressing game remains crucial, and Slot will likely continue to rely on the Hungarian unless his demands for offensive improvement remain unmet. If that happens, Szoboszlai could find himself at risk of being benched, especially if the team’s performances drop before the international break.
However, given the importance of Szoboszlai’s all-around game and his contributions beyond just goals, Slot might be hesitant to make any drastic changes. As long as Szoboszlai continues to be an integral part of the team’s pressing strategy, it’s unlikely he’ll be sidelined unless Slot decides that a lack of goals outweighs the other qualities Szoboszlai brings to the pitch.
