Dominik Szoboszlai offered insight into Liverpool’s evolving midfield dynamics under new head coach Arne Slot, reflecting on the shift in roles since Jurgen Klopp’s tenure. After a 2-0 victory against Ipswich on Saturday, Szoboszlai discussed the changes in Liverpool’s setup, revealing the tactical adjustments Slot has introduced.
Liverpool kicked off the Slot era with a solid win at Portman Road, where the Reds implemented a system that has been a recurring theme throughout pre-season. Although Slot dismissed the idea of a strict 4-2-3-1 formation during his first press conference, it’s clear that there have been notable deviations from Klopp’s familiar 4-3-3 structure.
In the match, Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, and Szoboszlai formed the midfield trio, each fulfilling specific roles within the new framework. Speaking to LFCTV post-game, Szoboszlai shed light on the tactical nuances, explaining how his responsibilities have evolved under Slot.
“We’re playing a bit differently now,” Szoboszlai explained when asked about Slot’s expectations for the midfield. “Previously, we had a setup with one No. 6 and two No. 8s, where one of the No. 8s would occasionally drop back to assist as a No. 6. Now, we’re working with a No. 8, a No. 6, and a No. 10. I’ve been playing as the No. 10, but I still have the flexibility to drop back or stay forward as needed.”
Szoboszlai noted that the new role offers him more opportunities to contribute offensively while maintaining his defensive duties, similar to last season. Previously, his role often mirrored that of Jordan Henderson, requiring him to cover significant ground in midfield, which limited his attacking involvement.
Having developed his skills primarily as a No. 10 or winger within the Red Bull system at Liefering, Salzburg, and Leipzig, Szoboszlai’s strengths lie in more advanced positions. Slot’s hybrid 4-2-3-1/4-3-3 formation appears poised to leverage these attributes more effectively, although Szoboszlai acknowledged that the squad is still adapting to the new approach.
“We had a relatively long pre-season, but not everyone was present the whole time,” Szoboszlai noted, indicating that the team is still fine-tuning their understanding of Slot’s tactics.
Diogo Jota echoed these sentiments in his interview with LFCTV, mentioning that the players are still adjusting to the new style of play. “Playing against a newly promoted team is never easy, but we secured a clean sheet and three points. Building on wins like this makes the transition smoother,” Jota said.
The comments from both players suggest that while Liverpool is still acclimating to Slot’s tactical vision, they are optimistic about the direction in which the team is heading.
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