Liverpool are entering a new era, and with the departures of dressing-room giants Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson, one question is becoming impossible to ignore: who steps up and becomes the next big voice at Anfield? 👀
Former Liverpool star Steve McManaman believes Dominik Szoboszlai could be one of the players to answer that call. The Hungarian has now been elevated into Liverpool’s leadership group by new boss Andoni Iraola, alongside Virgil van Dijk, Alisson Becker and Joe Gomez. 👑💪
And this isn’t simply a ceremonial promotion.
Szoboszlai is already the captain of Hungary, and Liverpool have rewarded his growing influence with a new long-term contract. The midfielder has also become an increasingly important figure in the heart of the team since arriving from RB Leipzig in 2023. 🇭🇺🔥
McManaman’s argument is simple: when big characters leave, the superstars have to step forward. Salah and Robertson weren’t just outstanding footballers; they were powerful voices inside the dressing room. Their absence leaves a leadership gap that cannot be ignored. 🗣️🚨
That is where Szoboszlai comes in.
At just 25, the Hungarian now has the experience, personality and responsibility to influence the next generation. He is energetic, vocal, technically gifted and capable of changing games from midfield. Liverpool’s official records show that he has already passed 140 appearances for the club and played a major role in the Premier League title-winning side. 📈🏆
And the early signs this season are already interesting. 👀
Against Newcastle, Szoboszlai showed composure under enormous pressure by converting a late penalty to rescue a 2–2 draw. Then against Atlético Madrid in the Champions League, he scored Liverpool’s equaliser before Alexis Mac Allister completed the comeback. 🔥⚽
Those are precisely the moments where leaders announce themselves.
But leadership isn’t just about scoring important goals or wearing an armband. It’s about demanding standards, controlling the mood when things go wrong, helping younger players adapt and taking responsibility when the team needs someone to stand up. 🧠💪
And Szoboszlai himself has indicated that he feels ready for the increased responsibility. With Iraola placing him inside the leadership structure, Liverpool are clearly signalling that they see something bigger in the Hungarian midfielder. 🔴👑
The pressure, however, will be huge.
Liverpool have entered a period of transition under Iraola, with several new players arriving and a younger group needing guidance. McManaman believes the established leaders must help bring those youngsters through quickly.
So perhaps this isn’t about asking whether Szoboszlai can become a leader anymore.
Maybe the real question is whether he can become THE leader Liverpool need after the Salah era. 👀🔥
The No.8 shirt carries history. The captaincy carries responsibility. And Anfield demands personality.
Is Dominik Szoboszlai ready to take the next step and become Liverpool’s future captain? 👑🇭🇺
Drop your thoughts below! 👇🔴
#LFC #Liverpool #Szoboszlai #DominikSzoboszlai #YNWA #Anfield #LiverpoolFC #PremierLeague