Arne Slot heaps praise on ‘incredible’ Liverpool star

Dominik Szoboszlai drives Liverpool forward under Arne Slot

Liverpool’s evolution under Arne Slot has been defined by clarity of ideas and collective discipline, but individual growth has also played a major role. Few players embody that better than Dominik Szoboszlai, whose influence has steadily increased during the 2025-26 campaign.

The Hungarian midfielder has become one of the most consistent performers in the squad, combining tactical intelligence with an ever improving attacking output. His clever free kick away to Marseille in the Champions League earlier this week ensured he has now registered a goal involvement in all but one of Liverpool’s European matches this season.

With seven goals and five assists in all competitions, Szoboszlai is on course for his most productive campaign since arriving at Anfield. Those numbers matter, especially for a side that often relies on midfielders to break lines and create overloads in advanced areas.

Slot outlines leadership growth

Speaking at the AXA Training Centre, Arne Slot highlighted that Szoboszlai’s value goes far beyond statistics. The Liverpool head coach sees him as a growing leader within the group, someone who sets standards through action rather than status.

“I think it always starts, if you want to be a leader, by leading by example. That’s what he’s done since the one-and-a-half years I’m here.”

Photo: IMAGO

For Slot, leadership is closely linked to work rate and discipline, two qualities Szoboszlai has never lacked. His pressing remains relentless, often setting the tempo for those around him.

“He’s always the one that without the ball is incredible in the way he can press, the intensity, he keeps running backwards, forwards.”

Confidence fuels attacking impact

Where Szoboszlai has made his biggest leap this season is with the ball. Under Slot’s positional system, midfielders are encouraged to take responsibility in the final third, and the 25 year old has embraced that role.

“I think he improved this season on the ball compared to last season, where last season I always liked him.”

That improvement has translated into more decisive contributions. Szoboszlai now arrives into scoring positions with greater timing and composure, while also linking play more effectively around the penalty area.

“But this season he plays with even more confidence and is more often involved in chances and goals.”

For Liverpool, that development is crucial. Slot’s team often dominates possession, and having midfielders who can convert territory into tangible threat has been a key factor behind their consistency across competitions.

Liverpool benefit from complete midfielder

Szoboszlai’s season reflects a broader pattern at Liverpool under Arne Slot, players are being asked to refine specific aspects of their game within a clear structure. In his case, the balance between physical output and technical quality has never looked healthier.

“He’s having a good season, as some other individuals are as well.”

That understated conclusion from Slot perhaps says more than it seems. Szoboszlai is no longer a promising talent adapting to English football, he is now a central figure in Liverpool’s identity. As the season progresses, his blend of leadership, energy and creativity continues to underline why he is fast becoming one of the most important players in Slot’s project.