Steve McManaman Calls on Dominik Szoboszlai to Lead Liverpool After Key Departures
Dominik Szoboszlai has been appointed as one of Liverpool's vice-captains amid major changes at Anfield this summer. The Hungarian midfielder will share this role with Alisson Becker and Joe Gomez, under new head coach Andoni Iraola. This shift comes following the exits of influential players Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson.
McManaman Urges Szoboszlai to Step Up
Ex-Liverpool winger Steve McManaman believes Szoboszlai must become a central figure within the team both on and off the field. Speaking to Seven, McManaman pointed out that when key leaders leave, others must rise to fill the gap. He sees Szoboszlai as a potential successor to captain Virgil van Dijk, highlighting his ability to manage the game's pace from midfield.
"Dominik Szoboszlai is another one who is establishing himself in this team now," McManaman said. "We've lost some big players over the last few years; big characters in the side, and so you need somebody to either come in or step up. That's what superstars do."
Mentoring the Younger Players
With many young and inexperienced players now part of the squad, McManaman stresses the importance of the leadership group maintaining strong standards. He reminded that Salah and Robertson were once powerful voices in the dressing room. Szoboszlai, along with Van Dijk and Alisson, are expected to help accelerate the growth of these emerging talents.
"He's got a really important role to play this season because we've lost some huge characters," McManaman added. "They need to play a really big role in bringing the younger lads through, and quite quickly."
Outlook for Iraola's First Season
Looking ahead, McManaman believes securing a spot in the top four and making runs in domestic cups would be a solid start for Andoni Iraola. While he thinks the squad might lack depth for a prolonged title challenge, he expects players entering their second year to show significant progress. The team will lean heavily on Szoboszlai’s leadership as new signings and academy prospects blend into Iraola's system.
- Match: Liverpool vs Atletico Madrid
- Date: 9 September 2026
- Time: 22:00
