Liverpool supporters directed sharp and widespread criticism at Dominik Szoboszlai following the Reds’ frustrating 0-0 draw with Fulham at Anfield on Saturday.
After a more encouraging display against Atlético Madrid in midweek, expectations were high that Liverpool would return to winning ways in the Premier League. Instead, Andoni Iraola’s side struggled to break down a well-organised and disciplined Fulham team. The hosts registered 11 shots but managed just two on target, with new £120 million signing Bradley Barcola coming closest after linking up with Alexander Isak early in the second half. Clear-cut chances were scarce, and the final whistle was met with a mixture of disappointment and irritation from the home crowd.
While the attack drew some criticism for a lack of cutting edge, much of the strongest post-match reaction focused on Szoboszlai. The Hungarian midfielder, previously tipped by some as a potential future Liverpool captain, was accused by large sections of the fanbase of being too passive and ineffective in the middle of the park.
One supporter wrote: “Szoboszlai walks around like he’s Zinedine Zidane, but he’s crap.” Another described him as “the biggest fraud in football history,” while a third openly questioned the decision to hand him a new contract. Several fans called for him to be dropped for the next Premier League fixture, arguing that his performances have failed to match the expectations that followed his arrival and subsequent extension.
The statistics from the Fulham game did little to quiet the criticism. Szoboszlai did not win a single tackle and came out on top in just one of his 10 duels. One supporter argued that the midfielder cannot continue to operate effectively as a No. 8 in a deeper role if he is not winning challenges, tracking runners, or consistently finding line-breaking passes. Some suggested he would be better suited further forward, where his energy and technical ability could be used in more advanced areas rather than in a role that currently demands greater defensive responsibility.
The reaction also highlighted wider concerns about Liverpool’s midfield balance. Ryan Gravenberch has been criticised for drifting out of position at times, and the club’s failure to sign a traditional defensive midfielder during the summer transfer window has once again come under scrutiny. Many supporters feel the side still lacks the steel and structure required to control games against well-drilled opponents, particularly at home.
Liverpool remain unbeaten under Iraola, and the draw against Fulham does not represent a crisis. However, the goalless result and the nature of the performance have raised fresh questions about whether the current midfield is equipped to sustain a title challenge over the course of a long season. With tougher fixtures still to come, the scrutiny on Szoboszlai and the midfield unit is unlikely to ease until performances improve.
