When Dominik Szoboszlai joined Liverpool FC from RB Leipzig in 2023 for £60m, he chose the iconic number eight shirt once worn by Steven Gerrard.
Etched on his forearm is a Hungarian quote attributed to Gerrard about talent, will and humility — a fitting motto for a player who has become central to Liverpool’s season. While Szoboszlai insists he is forging his own path, the parallels with the former captain are increasingly hard to ignore.
Goals, graft and growing influence
The 25-year-old has delivered his most productive campaign yet, reaching double figures for goals while adding seven assists. Only Hugo Ekitike has registered more goal involvements for Liverpool this term, and captain Virgil van Dijk is the only player to have logged more minutes.
Szoboszlai’s versatility has also stood out. Even when deployed away from his preferred number 10 role — including at right-back in high-profile matches — he has continued to produce decisive moments, including spectacular free-kicks against Arsenal and Manchester City. His consistency and physical output have underlined his value, with no Liverpool player covering more distance this season.
Leadership the next frontier
Head coach Arne Slot believes Szoboszlai already leads by example but says the next step is becoming more vocal in the dressing room, following the template set by Van Dijk.
Handed Hungary’s captaincy at just 22, Szoboszlai is viewed internally as a future Liverpool skipper. With uncertainty surrounding senior figures and contract discussions ongoing, securing his long-term future could prove pivotal.
After an inconsistent first season under Jurgen Klopp, Szoboszlai returned with renewed focus and has been ever-present under Slot. Now entering his prime, he is no longer simply carrying the symbolism of the number eight shirt — he is shaping Liverpool’s present and positioning himself as a cornerstone of their future.
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