Hungary manager Marco Rossi believes Liverpool’s Dominik Szoboszlai can be ‘best in the world’ in an unfamiliar position, having excelled in said role for the national team.
Hungary boss Marco Rossi has proposed a surprising position change for Arne Slot involving Dominik Szoboszlai during the international break.
Szoboszlai, who has impressed playing right-back for Liverpool this season, recently scored a stunning free-kick against Arsenal to secure a 1-0 victory over last season’s Premier League runners-up.
However, the former RB Leipzig star’s national team manager has suggested another role for the 24-year-old after he impressed in this position for Hungary during international duty.
Rossi’s suggestion stems from Szoboszlai’s display in the Tricolours’ 2-2 draw with the Republic of Ireland on Saturday, despite playing most of the second half with 10 men after Roland Sallai‘s red card in the 52nd minute.
Szoboszlai: Rossi makes ‘bombshell’ defensive midfield claim
Rossi stated that while Szoboszlai has shown his ability in various roles, he believes the 24-year-old’s true potential lies in a defensive midfield position.
“Dominik Szoboszlai’s defensive play was positive. After the sending off, we switched to a 5-3-1, so we could no longer put pressure on the opponent,” Rossi said in comments seen on TBR Football.
“He can play in any position, as he has proven in the Premier League, but we think he can be one of the best in the world in the number six, defensive midfield position.”
Despite Rossi’s suggestion, defensive midfield is a role Szoboszlai has yet to play for Liverpool, as Ryan Gravenberch currently occupies the position.
Szoboszlai has instead been used in more attacking roles, including as an advanced midfielder and, more recently, as a makeshift right-back.
Who are Liverpool’s options for defensive midfield?
Liverpool have several options for the defensive midfield role, with Gravenberch as the primary choice under Arne Slot.
The Dutchman’s successful second season at Anfield, which saw him named Premier League Young Player of the Season, has cemented his position at the base of the midfield.
Wataru Endo, who joined from Stuttgart in 2023, offers an experienced alternative but has struggled for game time, making just 20 league appearances under Slot last season.
Stefan Bajcetic is also a candidate, although his injury record has limited his minutes, and his profile may suit a more box-to-box role.
With Alexis Mac Allister also capable of playing in a deeper position, Slot has a range of players who can cover this role besides the makeshift use of Szoboszlai.
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