Next Liverpool captain? Dominik Szoboszlai prediction made after contract signing as Reds legend informs Andoni Iraola of selection mistake that he must avoid at Anfield

Szoboszlai posted a personal-best goal return last season

He was snapped up from RB Leipzig as a goal-scoring midfielder that could drive through the engine room and into the final third - making decisive contributions at the business end of the field. The 25-year-old had also shown himself to be a useful operator when standing over a dead ball.

Those qualities have been showcased across a Premier League title-winning spell in England, with the 2025-26 campaign seeing Szoboszlai post a personal-best goal return of 13 efforts across all competitions - with a few spectacular free-kicks being thrown into the mix.

Hungarian star has signed new long-term contract

That output was achieved despite often being asked to play out of position and cover the injury-enforced absence of stricken team-mates. The Hungary international often reined in his attacking instincts when lining up at right-back.

Szoboszlai is unable to impact proceedings when filling that berth, with new Reds boss Iraola being urged against repeating some of the surprising tactical decisions that were made by his predecessor Arne Slot.

Liverpool captain prediction & right-back warning

Szoboszlai further highlighted his ability to deliver under pressure during Liverpool’s opening game of the 2026-27 campaign. With Newcastle clinging on to a 2-1 lead deep into stoppage-time at St James’ Park, the Reds were awarded a dramatic late penalty.

Rather than hand the ball to ex-Magpies striker Alexander Isak, Liverpool placed considerable trust in their No.8. He did not disappoint when firing into the top corner from 12 yards, with a battling point being picked up ahead of a first home date of the season against Nottingham Forest on Saturday.