Dominik Szoboszlai is facing growing criticism following another underwhelming performance for Liverpool, with suggestions that Andoni Iraola should consider leaving the Hungarian midfielder out of his starting lineup.
Liverpool suffered a frustrating 3-2 defeat against Fenerbahce in the Champions League on Wednesday night. The result extended the club’s disappointing run to three consecutive matches without a victory in normal time.
The Reds are now under pressure to respond, with their upcoming Premier League meeting against Crystal Palace presenting an opportunity to get back on track.
However, Szoboszlai’s recent performances have become a major talking point among supporters and pundits.
The 26-year-old started against Fenerbahce but struggled to influence proceedings despite featuring in an advanced midfield role. Although he has returned to full fitness, questions are being raised about whether he deserves to retain his place in Iraola’s starting XI.
Szoboszlai’s Recent Statistics Raise Concerns
Szoboszlai enjoyed an impressive campaign last season, registering 25 goal contributions in 53 appearances across all competitions.
His influence, however, has dropped considerably this season. The midfielder has recorded just three goals and no assists in 10 appearances.
His display against Fenerbahce further highlighted his current difficulties.
Operating as a number 10, the Hungarian created only two chances, managed just one touch inside the opposition penalty area and completed three accurate crosses from 20 attempts.
He also failed to register a successful tackle, lost both of his attempted duels and recorded only one defensive contribution.
Liverpool’s wider lack of intensity has also attracted attention. The Reds reportedly rank bottom of the Premier League for average distance covered per match, with a team average of 111.2 kilometres.
Szoboszlai’s individual numbers have also come under scrutiny, as he reportedly sits in the 15th percentile for distance covered among top-flight midfielders, averaging 11 kilometres per 90 minutes.
These statistics have intensified the debate surrounding his contribution and current role in the team.
Carragher Offers His Opinion on Szoboszlai’s Best Position
Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has also shared his thoughts on where Szoboszlai should play under Iraola.
Following the defeat against Fenerbahce, Carragher suggested that the Hungarian is naturally suited to operating as a number eight in a traditional 4-3-3 formation.
However, he also acknowledged that the number 10 position could suit him in Iraola’s preferred system.
That role could allow Szoboszlai to put pressure on opposition defenders, help maintain Liverpool’s midfield balance and make more forward runs into dangerous areas.
Nevertheless, questions remain about whether his recent performances justify a regular starting position.
Iraola Faces a Difficult Decision Ahead of Crystal Palace Clash
With Liverpool desperate to return to winning ways, Iraola now faces an important selection decision ahead of the Crystal Palace fixture.
Dropping Szoboszlai could give the midfielder an opportunity to recover his confidence and rediscover the form that made him such an important player last season.
On the other hand, keeping him in the starting lineup could provide the Hungarian with another opportunity to prove himself and silence his critics.
There is no doubt that Szoboszlai remains an important member of Liverpool’s squad, but his recent performances suggest that improvements are needed.
The coming match could therefore be crucial for both the midfielder and Liverpool as Iraola looks to get his team back on track.
What do you think? Should Andoni Iraola drop Dominik Szoboszlai against Crystal Palace, or should he remain in Liverpool’s starting XI? Share your opinion in the comment
