Liverpool fans were likely thrilled when the club recently confirmed the signing of RB Leipzig midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai on a €70 million deal.
The signing was seen as a positive development, and it would have undoubtedly provided an exhilarating experience for fans eagerly awaiting news of new players joining their team.
Although it’s still early in the transfer window, Liverpool have made significant investments, with only Tottenham surpassing them in net spending among the top leagues this summer.
However, a substantial portion of Tottenham’s expenditure was allocated towards securing two loan players who were already part of their squad.
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In contrast, Liverpool’s signings, including World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister, indicate a promising beginning to their necessary rebuilding process at Anfield.
Dominik Szoboszlai has won a trophy in every season he’s played as a professional footballer 👀 pic.twitter.com/vDETEWF7Mr
— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) July 5, 2023
Liverpool activated Szoboszlai ‘s release clause and secured his services quickly. This 22-year-old is Liverpool’s second signing of the summer, following their successful deal for Alexis Mac Allister.
With the addition of these two new players, Jurgen Klopp will have a wealth of options to shape his midfield and attacking lines.
Szoboszlai’s impressive versatility allows him to excel in multiple positions, including attacking midfield, as a number eight or ten, and even as a winger on either side.
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In this article, we take a closer look at three potential roles that the 22-year-old could fulfil in Klopp’s lineup for the upcoming season.
1. Dominik Szoboszlai as a No.8
Szoboszlai’s outstanding performance last season, with 10 goals and 13 assists, highlights his ability to make significant contributions to the team’s attacking prowess.
If Klopp opts to deploy Trent Alexander-Arnold as a midfielder, the English international could form a midfield partnership with Fabinho, creating a double pivot. This tactical arrangement would allow Szoboszlai the freedom to operate in an advanced role.
In such a scenario, the versatility of Alexis Mac Allister would bring balance to the team’s left side, complementing the setup and adding further depth to Liverpool’s midfield and attacking options.
2. Dominik Szoboszlai as a Central Midfielder
In certain matches, Klopp might choose to deploy Trent Alexander-Arnold in his traditional role as a full-back rather than in midfield.
This tactical approach would involve a three-man midfield setup, with Szoboszlai taking on a deeper number eight role that entails additional defensive responsibilities.
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This was likely the intended role for Jude Bellingham before his transfer to Real Madrid.
Szoboszlai’s impressive physical attributes make him an excellent fit for this position. However, he would still require support from a defensive midfielder.
Once again, Fabinho emerges as the frontrunner to provide defensive cover. Nevertheless, there are indications that Liverpool might pursue a summer move for PSV’s Ibrahim Sangare to bolster their midfield options.
3. Dominik Szoboszlai as a Winger
Another possibility is that Klopp may decide not to utilize Szoboszlai in midfield. Considering his impressive performances for RB Leipzig, Szoboszlai could be deployed as a right winger, a position where he thrived last season.
This lineup would prove valuable in providing Mohamed Salah with occasional rest, especially in Europa League matches.
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Additionally, Szoboszlai’s versatility to play on the left flank would also increase competition for Diogo Jota and Luis Diaz, further strengthening the team’s attacking options.
