Liverpool Midfield Star Determined to Raise Standards Further

Dominik Szoboszlai drives Liverpool’s relentless push ahead of Everton clash

Dominik Szoboszlai has already carved out a reputation as one of Liverpool’s most influential figures, yet the Hungarian midfielder insists he is far from satisfied. His self-criticism and drive for constant improvement mirror the standards set at Anfield under Arne Slot, with the team beginning the 2025-26 campaign in imperious form.

Relentless mentality behind Liverpool’s midfield star

Liverpool’s perfect start to the season, four wins from four, owes much to Szoboszlai’s energy and versatility. Whether anchoring midfield or filling in at right-back, his consistency has been impossible to ignore. Still, he makes clear that personal satisfaction remains elusive.

“To be honest, I’m never happy with myself,” Szoboszlai told Liverpoolfc.com at the AXA Training Centre. “That’s maybe a wrong mentality because sometimes you need good feedback.

“But there are people who I’m getting feedback from. So if they give me feedback and I stay on the floor, on the ground, then it’s a good balance.

“I have to keep going. There’s a long way to go until the end of the season. We would like to achieve a lot.”

Such words underline why Szoboszlai has become a cornerstone of Slot’s new era. The manager, fresh from guiding Liverpool to the Premier League title last season, has built a side that thrives on intensity and adaptability, qualities embodied by his No.8.

Photo: IMAGO

Trust and responsibility under Arne Slot

Liverpool’s Champions League campaign began with victory over Atletico Madrid, where Szoboszlai returned to a central midfield role. Yet the player himself shrugs off questions about where he fits best.

“I’m enjoying it really a lot. Thanks to the gaffer also for giving me the opportunity to play as well, sometimes in a different position.

“But as long as he would like to play me in any position then I’m going to try to do my best.”

That willingness to serve wherever required has proved invaluable. It also reflects the trust between player and coach, a theme that runs through Slot’s management since his arrival.

Focus sharpens for Everton test

The immediate challenge for Liverpool is the Merseyside derby. Everton travel to Anfield at lunchtime on Saturday, with Szoboszlai stressing the need for focus after a run of late victories.

He said: “For sure, but I hope we can finish the game earlier than the last five games!

“In every game you need that but, of course, especially for a derby. For a couple of guys it’s going to be new but I think we are ready. Everybody is ready and can’t wait for it to be tomorrow at 12.30pm.”

The clash with Everton provides more than local bragging rights. For Liverpool, it is a chance to extend their flawless start and maintain momentum at the top of the Premier League. For Szoboszlai, it is another opportunity to set standards higher still, even if he remains his own harshest critic.

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