Steve McManaman Calls on Dominik Szoboszlai to Lead Liverpool After Key Departures

Szoboszlai Steps into Liverpool Leadership Role

Following a summer of big changes at Liverpool, Dominik Szoboszlai has been named as one of three vice-captains by new manager Andoni Iraola. The Hungarian midfielder joins seasoned squad members Alisson Becker and Joe Gomez in sharing the responsibility under captain Virgil van Dijk.

Filling the Void Left by Salah and Robertson

The promotion of Szoboszlai into the leadership group comes after the departures of influential figures Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson. Their exits have left a significant gap in the dressing room, and former Liverpool winger Steve McManaman believes Szoboszlai must become the central presence on and off the field.

"Dominik Szoboszlai is another one who is establishing himself in this team now. We've lost some big players over the last few years; big characters in the side, so you need somebody to either come in or step up. That's what superstars do," McManaman told Seven.

Guiding Young Players Through Transition

With many younger, less experienced players in the squad, McManaman stresses the need for the leadership trio of Szoboszlai, Van Dijk, and Alisson to uphold standards and help accelerate the growth of the next generation.

"He's got a really important role to play this season because we've lost some huge characters. They need to play a really big role in bringing the younger lads through, and quite quickly," he added.

Looking Ahead: Challenges and Expectations

As Iraola begins his tenure, McManaman thinks securing a top-four finish and strong performances in domestic cups would mark a positive start. Though he sees the squad as a bit light for a title challenge right now, he expects the second-year players to show improvement.

Liverpool will rely heavily on Szoboszlai's leadership to blend summer signings and youth prospects into the team’s tactics.

• Match: Liverpool vs Atletico Madrid
• Date: 9 September 2026
• Time: 22:00