Steve McManaman Urges Dominik Szoboszlai to Step Up as Liverpool's Key Leader After Summer Changes
Szoboszlai Joins Liverpool's Leadership Core
Dominik Szoboszlai has been added to Liverpool's leadership circle following a summer of major changes at Anfield. The Hungarian midfielder is one of three vice-captains appointed by new head coach Andoni Iraola, supporting captain Virgil van Dijk. Szoboszlai shares this role with seasoned players Alisson Becker and Joe Gomez.
This promotion comes after the club parted ways with key figures Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson at the season's end, leaving a leadership gap to fill.
McManaman Calls on Szoboszlai to Lead
Former Liverpool winger Steve McManaman believes Szoboszlai must rise to become the central leader both on and off the pitch. In an interview with Seven, McManaman stressed that top players need to step up when influential veterans depart.
"Dominik Szoboszlai is establishing himself in this team now," McManaman said. "We've lost some big characters over the last few years; big personalities in the side, so you need someone to come in or step up. That's what superstars do."
He sees Szoboszlai as a future successor to Van Dijk, particularly in controlling the game's rhythm from midfield.
Guiding the Young Squad Forward
With a number of inexperienced players in Iraola's squad, McManaman feels the new leadership must uphold strong standards. He pointed out how much authority Salah and Robertson wielded in the dressing room before their departures.
"He's got a really important role to play this season, because we've lost some huge characters," McManaman added. "They need to take a big role in bringing the younger lads through, and quite quickly."
Looking Ahead to Iraola's First Season
Regarding the season ahead, McManaman thinks securing a top-four league finish and competing well in domestic cups would mark a solid start for Iraola. Although he views the squad as somewhat thin for a sustained title fight, he expects noticeable growth from second-year players.
Liverpool's success will depend heavily on Szoboszlai's leadership as the coach blends new signings and youth talent into his system.
- Competition: Champions League
- Upcoming Match: Liverpool vs Atletico Madrid
- Date and Time: 9 September 2026, 22:00
