Dominik Szoboszlai’s versatility is proving to be a vital asset for Liverpool

When Liverpool broke the bank this summer to sign Florian Wirtz, many wondered whether Dominik Szoboszlai’s starting spot was suddenly under threat. After all, Wirtz is a high-profile No. 10, a position that Szoboszlai often occupied.

Yet, the Hungarian international, who scored eight goals and notched eight assists across all categories of matches last season, made it clear he wasn’t stepping aside so easily.

In the season’s opening league matches, Szoboszlai helped Liverpool clinch six points while playing in different roles, showcasing his adaptability and unrelenting work rate.

Although the hierarchy remains unsettled, Szoboszlai appears to be carving out a new niche that could enhance both his individual performance and the team’s tactical flexibility.

Deep Dive Into His Performance

In the opener against Bournemouth, Ryan Gravenberch’s suspension gave Szoboszlai a chance to drop deeper.

Despite a minor error that led to Bournemouth’s goal, he was a constant presence: completing 66 of 75 passes and making four tackles—the most of any Liverpool player that night.

His energy across the pitch was undeniable, helping build attacks while shoring up the midfield.

Next up was a hard-fought battle against Newcastle for Matchday 2. With Gravenberch back and Jeremie Frimpong injured, manager Arne Slot repositioned Szoboszlai at right-back, another sign of coaching trust in his flexibility.

Though he didn’t grab Man-of-the-Match recognition, the graphic below, provided by the Premier League official and its partner Microsoft, highlights his expansive activity zones across the pitch. 

“It is not easy to play as a full-back if you've only been a midfielder in your career,” Slot complimented Szoboszlai in the post-match conference. “For him to put in a performance like that, you can say a lot about his mentality.”

From defensive duties to creative flicks into the final third, Szoboszlai was truly the unsung hero who quietly anchored Liverpool behind goals from Gravenberch, Hugo Ekitike, and a 100th-minute game-winner by 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha. 

What’s Next for Szoboszlai This Season?

Szoboszlai’s ability to fill in multiple positions is both an asset and a puzzle. He could undoubtedly start as a midfield cornerstone when Liverpool encountered an injury crisis. But the tough question remains unanswered: where does Szoboszlai fit when everyone’s fit? 

Szoboszlai and Wirtz could form a potent attacking duo. Thanks to his creativity, technical finesse, and relentless work rate, Szoboszlai maintains significant value even if pushed out of the No. 10 role.

He has already clocked some of the highest pressure counts in both the final and middle thirds of matches, and his involvement in fast breaks is among the highest in the Premier League.

Slot himself had previously praised Szoboszlai’s intensity, calling him “relentless,” and acknowledging the Hungarian is “very important” to the team with his extraordinary work ethic.

Under Slot’s preferred setup, a hybrid of 4-2-3-1 and 4-3-3, Szoboszlai was often deployed in the attacking midfielder role, being able to drop deep or push forward as required.

Another option could see him shift to the No. 8 position, working alongside the pivot and even offering cover for full-backs during offensive transitions.

Though his finishing needs refinement, his movement, build-up interplay, and game intelligence continue to add layers to Liverpool’s play.

Final Word

Szoboszlai wasn’t just fighting for a spot; he’s broadening the team’s capabilities. His versatility has shifted from a backup option to a key strategic asset.

Whether he plays in a deeper role or out wide, his unwavering energy and technical skill make him central to Slot’s plan. 

Liverpool don't just need an emergency substitute; they require a versatile player like Szoboszlai, particularly as they focus on maintaining consistent team cohesion throughout a season where steady performance outweighs last-minute brilliance.