Dominik Szoboszlai’s Midfield Role at Liverpool
Liverpool’s midfield has become a mix of talent and confusion under new manager Andoni Iraola. The Hungarian midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai is being used in multiple positions, from number 8 to number 6, which has sparked debate about his role and consistency. The article explores his recent perform…
By Felo News Desk · Published
Liverpool’s midfield has swung from criticism to acclaim in the early days of Andoni Iraola’s tenure at Anfield. The new manager’s tactical experiments have highlighted both the strengths and the uncertainties of the squad, especially in the centre of the park. Central to this discussion is Hungarian playmaker Dominik Szoboszlai, whose versatility has become both a blessing and a source of controversy.
Szoboszlai’s Recent Highlights and Low Points
On Wednesday, Szoboszlai added a spectacular half‑volley from 30 yards to Liverpool’s tally against Tottenham. The goal, described by the player as a simple “why not?” moment, underscored his knack for striking from distance. In contrast, four days earlier the team struggled against Fulham, with Szoboszlai winning only one of ten duels and critics pointing to his defensive lapses. That match left the midfielder’s position in question as the team sought a more stable midfield foundation.
During a draw at St James’ Park, the Hungarian’s 99th‑minute penalty salvaged a point for Liverpool. The goal came after a chaotic midfield exchange that left the team exposed, yet it showcased Szoboszlai’s composure under pressure. Across the season, the midfielder has contributed five of Liverpool’s eleven goals, illustrating his offensive value.
Understanding Iraola’s Tactical Set‑up
Iraola’s preferred formation is often described as a 4‑2‑3‑1 or a 4‑1‑4‑1, but the manager insists that the midfield is not a traditional double‑holding pair. Instead, he deploys a single number 6, a number 8, and a number 10, each positioned at different levels of the pitch. Szoboszlai explains that the number 8 is slightly higher than the number 6, while the number 10 sits even further up, creating a layered midfield rather than a flat one.
In practice, this means Szoboszlai can be found in a variety of roles: as a box‑to‑box number 8, a deeper number 6, or even a creative number 10. His recent season has seen him occupy all five traditional midfield positions—number 2, 6, 7, 8, and 10—demonstrating his adaptability but also raising questions about positional discipline.
Szoboszlai’s Perspective on Flexibility and Performance
When asked about criticism after the Fulham game, Szoboszlai admitted it was new to him but welcomed the feedback. He emphasized that he plays for the team’s benefit, not for individual accolades. “We are all human; we have bad days,” he said, acknowledging that consistency is a challenge for any player. He also highlighted his fitness record, noting that he rarely misses a match, yet he cannot guarantee brilliance every time.
Despite the criticism, Szoboszlai remains confident in his role. He believes his best performances come when he is given the freedom to roam, as seen in his goal against Tottenham. He also expressed a desire to play more often than to be confined to a single position, stating, “I just want to be on the pitch.”
The Search for Midfield Balance at Liverpool
Liverpool’s midfield dilemma is not solely about Szoboszlai. The team also features Argentinian midfielder Alexis Mac Allister, who has been praised for his defensive contributions. The combination of Mac Allister’s solidity and Szoboszlai’s creativity is seen as a potential recipe for success, but the exact deployment remains unsettled.
Florian Wirtz, a specialist number 10, and Szoboszlai are both capable of playing off the main striker. The competition for that spot could influence the team’s attacking dynamics. Historically, when Mohamed Salah was dropped, Szoboszlai was moved to the right wing, and he later earned Liverpool’s Player‑of‑the‑Year award while playing in various positions, including right‑back.
Looking ahead, the team’s next fixtures will test whether Iraola can find the right balance between defensive solidity and creative freedom. Whether Szoboszlai will settle into a specific role or continue to rotate across the midfield remains a key question for Liverpool supporters.
What Happens Next?
As the season progresses, the coaching staff will need to decide whether to lock Szoboszlai into a single position or maintain his flexible usage. The outcome will affect not only his individual development but also Liverpool’s overall tactical coherence. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the midfield can stabilize and deliver consistent performances.
Key facts
- Szoboszlai’s goal‑scoring and defensive criticism
- Iraola’s layered midfield concept
- Szoboszlai’s versatility across five positions
- Competition with Florian Wirtz for the number 10 spot
- Liverpool’s ongoing search for midfield balance
Why it matters
Szoboszlai’s uncertain role highlights Liverpool’s broader tactical challenges under a new manager, affecting team performance and fan expectations.
Frequently asked questions
What positions has Szoboszlai played for Liverpool?
He has appeared as number 2, 6, 7, 8, and 10, showcasing his versatility.
How does Andoni Iraola structure Liverpool’s midfield?
Iraola uses a single holding midfielder (number 6) with a number 8 slightly higher and a number 10 even further up, creating a layered midfield.
Why is Szoboszlai’s role considered a dilemma?
His flexibility offers tactical options but also raises concerns about positional discipline and consistency.
Sources
- [1] independent.co.uk — originally reported as “The Dominik Szoboszlai dilemma that Liverpool must solve”
