BREAKING NEWS: Very Bad News Has Been Confirmed For Dominik Szoboszlai.

Dominik Szoboszlai’s performance for Liverpool in the 2024/25 season has sparked considerable discussion. Evaluating his contributions, particularly regarding goal-scoring, has proven somewhat difficult. Liverpool’s head coach, Arne Slot, has voiced concerns about the Hungarian international’s limited goal impact, although he has commended Szoboszlai’s impressive pressing skills. At 23, Szoboszlai has become a vital component of Slot’s strategy, but his goal drought has led to questions about his effectiveness in a more advanced midfield position.

James Pearce, a journalist for The Athletic, shared similar views during the Walk On podcast. He remarked on Szoboszlai’s disappointing goal tally from the previous season, especially for a club like Liverpool, known for dominating possession and generating numerous scoring opportunities. Pearce highlighted that Szoboszlai only scored three goals in the Premier League last season, which is relatively low for a player in his role. Given the high expectations at Liverpool, it’s reasonable to anticipate greater contributions from a midfielder expected to be involved in attacking play.

In the current season, Szoboszlai has tallied three goal contributions in seven matches, reflecting some improvement, but it may not suffice to quell all criticism. This situation raises the question of whether Slot should contemplate benching him if his offensive performance doesn’t enhance.

While goal-scoring is a crucial aspect of Szoboszlai’s role, his work ethic and pressing abilities are equally important. He plays a significant part in the overall effectiveness of Slot’s tactical framework, and replacing him could reduce the team’s pressing intensity. For example, while Harvey Elliott may pose a greater goal-scoring threat, there’s no assurance he would deliver the same level of defensive effort and pressure on the opposition.

Curtis Jones is another contender for increased playing time. He substituted for Szoboszlai during a recent match against Wolves and performed admirably. However, it would be challenging for Jones to displace other key players like Ryan Gravenberch or Alexis Mac Allister, both of whom have been in excellent form, intensifying competition in midfield.

Additionally, there remains uncertainty surrounding the future of the No.10 role at Liverpool. Szoboszlai’s missed opportunity from close range against Crystal Palace’s Sam Johnstone continues to haunt him, as it was a crucial moment that could have alleviated concerns about his goal-scoring. Such chances must be converted, particularly given the expectations for attacking midfielders to contribute offensively, beyond just pressing and defensive duties.

It seems unlikely that Slot will drop Szoboszlai for the upcoming league match against Crystal Palace, although he might consider resting him midweek. Szoboszlai’s pressing remains essential, and Slot will probably continue to count on him unless he fails to meet expectations for offensive contributions. If this trend persists, Szoboszlai could risk being benched, especially if the team struggles ahead of the international break.

Nonetheless, considering Szoboszlai’s all-around contributions and the importance of his role beyond just scoring, Slot may hesitate to implement any significant changes. As long as Szoboszlai continues to be a crucial part of the team’s pressing strategy, it is unlikely he will be sidelined unless Slot determines that his lack of goals outweighs the other valuable qualities he brings to the pitch.