Dominik Szoboszlai has expressed optimism and motivation ahead of Liverpool’s new Premier League season, following a disappointing title defence that saw the club finish fifth and led to the dismissal of former manager Arne Slot. The Hungarian midfielder, who captained Liverpool during their recent pre-season tour in the United States, emphasized the squad’s readiness to improve under new head coach Andoni Iraola.
Szoboszlai acknowledged the challenges Liverpool faced last season and stressed the collective desire to respond positively. “We didn’t end up where we wanted to. So now we’re going to go for it again,” he said. He highlighted the renewed motivation within the squad and underlined that the competition for places would be decided by the manager, with all players currently starting “on zero.”
The new manager’s style has introduced changes to the team’s routine, particularly his preference not to address players immediately after matches. Szoboszlai described Iraola as a “quiet man” who chooses to discuss performances the day following games, a method the squad is adapting to during the pre-season campaign.
Liverpool’s summer transfer window has been slow, with the club adding only a couple of younger players, central defender Jérémy Jacquet and versatile forward Victor Muñoz, while pursuing further reinforcements such as Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola. Szoboszlai refrained from commenting directly on transfer targets but made it clear that if no further signings arrive, the current squad will need to step up. “If the manager and the club decide not to sign anyone, then we have to do something special with this squad,” he said.
Regarding his role on the pitch, Szoboszlai remains flexible. Since joining Liverpool from RB Leipzig, the 25-year-old has played in multiple positions including midfield, attacking midfield, wide right, and even right-back. “I didn’t speak to [Iraola] about where he wants me to play,” Szoboszlai noted. “If he doesn’t tell me, he’ll put me where he wants me to play. I’ll give my best wherever that is.”
Szoboszlai’s influence at Liverpool was recognized with a contract extension earlier this summer, securing his stay at the club until 2031. During the US tour, in the absence of regular vice-captains Alisson and Joe Gomez, Szoboszlai took on the captaincy role, signaling the club’s trust in his leadership potential. He acknowledged that the vice-captaincy is not yet decided but expressed pride at the prospect and respect for other candidates, affirming the team would support whichever player is chosen.
An incident during the tour involving a brief disagreement over the captain’s armband passing after Szoboszlai’s substitution in a friendly against Wrexham attracted media attention. Curtis Jones appeared frustrated when the armband was given to Kostas Tsimikas instead of him on the pitch. Szoboszlai downplayed the matter, describing it as a minor, on-field discussion without ill feelings. “It was never a debate between us three. Everybody is cool,” he said.
With a fresh managerial approach, a motivated squad, and a pre-season focused on adaptation, Liverpool aims to mount a stronger campaign this season after last year’s underwhelming finish. Szoboszlai’s leadership and determination will likely play a key role in the club’s efforts to return to title contention.