How Dominik Szoboszlai fits in Klopp’s team

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How Dominik Szoboszlai Fits in Klopp’s team

Liverpool Football Club has completed a significant transfer by acquiring the services of highly talented midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai from RB Leipzig. Liverpool activated Szoboszlai’s £60 million release clause just before its expiration on June 30. The acquisition of Szoboszlai marks Liverpool’s second major signing this summer, following Alexis Mac Allister.

During his time at Leipzig since 2021, this 22-year-old Hungarian prodigy showcased his talent in 91 appearances, netting an impressive 20 goals and providing 22 assists across all competitions. Renowned for his versatility and attacking prowess, Dominik Szoboszlai is capable of seamlessly adapting to various positions on the field, be it as a number 10, on the wings or even as a false nine. His creativity allows him to pick apart stubborn defensive setups with ease. Additionally, his dribbling ability enables him to navigate through tight spaces effortlessly. A pinpoint passer of the ball, he consistently delivers accurate long-range passes that split defences wide open. Furthermore, his proficiency in long-range shooting adds another lethal dimension to his game.

Since Jurgen Klopp took over as manager in 2015, Liverpool has predominantly utilised a 4-3-3 formation. However, in the 2022/23 season, the team began experiencing difficulties. Their commitment to playing a high defensive line allows them to apply relentless pressure on opponents near their own goal, but this strategy also relies heavily on the midfield’s ability to support and maintain ball pressure. Unfortunately, a noticeable lack of runners in the midfield exposed them to the counter-attacks of opponents that sat back. This led to a poor run of form that eventually cost them a place in next season’s Champions League.

In an attempt to address Liverpool’s ongoing struggles, Klopp made a significant change in his approach. He moved Alexander-Arnold into midfield, similar to Zinchenko’s role under Arteta, while maintaining a back three when in possession, creating a 3-2-2-3 setup that resembled Pep’s own tactical tweak. This tactical adjustment proved successful as Liverpool went on an impressive unbeaten run of 11 games to end the season.

Jurgen Klopp is planning to overhaul his midfield this summer, with the recent acquisition of Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton. Adding Szoboslai to the squad will bring a fresh and dynamic energy, as well as versatility and exceptional technical skills. The question now is how he will fit into Klopp’s team.

During his time at Leipzig, he primarily operated as a right winger, occasionally switching sides and even playing as a number 10. However, we anticipate that his role at Liverpool will resemble the one he fulfils for Hungary, where he acts as a playmaker within a 3-4-2-1 formation. Szoboszlai enjoys the freedom to navigate between the lines and generate scoring opportunities for his teammates. He seamlessly connects the midfield and the frontline, occasionally dropping deeper to spark incisive attacking moves with his vision and exceptional passing. His ability to pinpoint incisive through balls and deliver precise crosses renders him indispensable for his national team. 

Dominik Szoboszlai

In Liverpool’s lineup, Szoboszlai is anticipated to take up the right position in a midfield trio if Klopp reverts to his favoured 4-3-3 formation. Alternatively, he could occupy the advanced right spot in a ‘box’ midfield if Klopp sticks with the 3-2-2-3 formation. In either case, Szoboszlai would need to be an active defender upfront and apply pressure high up the field. Moreover, his presence would add a much-needed goal-scoring threat from midfield that was lacking in Klopp’s team last season. Szoboszlai would likely have the freedom to create opportunities and find the back of the net from central areas, given his impressive record of 10 goals and 13 assists for RB Leipzig in all competitions last season.

While his role would not be too diferent in these two formations, he would be expected to cover considerable ground as is customary for Klopp’s midfielders. This role mirrors what we saw Jordan Henderson and Harvey Elliott fulfil on numerous occasions throughout last season. A potential partnership with MacAllister could serve as a perfect renovation that fills the slot behind the attacking line while maintaining Klopp’s gegenpressing philosophy.

Dominik Szoboszlai

Based on his experience in similar positions, he could also serve as a suitable backup option for Cody Gakpo or Mo Salah. However, given the abundance of attacking options within the Liverpool squad, it is unlikely that he would be utilised in such a manner. Regardless, Klopp can take solace in having a player like Dominik Szoboszlai, who possesses exceptional skills and can effortlessly adapt to various roles when necessary.

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