In many ways this has been another season of transition for Liverpool. At the start of the season, Jurgen Klopp essentially completely overhauled the club’s midfield.
For that factor alone, few expected Liverpool to reach the heights that they have. Liverpool’s rise to fighting for the Premier League title with eight matches to go has been unprecedented. But it’s a testament to how well the club’s new signings have settled. And how Klopp has helped to integrate them into his system. It will also be a pat on the back of Liverpool’s recruitment department, who have received a little bit criticism since the departure of Michael Edwards, but who definitely redeemed themselves this summer.
Above all, Liverpool’s improvement is also down to the system working better. Last season, Liverpool were cut open too easily and were left exposed in midfield. There was no control in Klopp’s team. However, this season that control has returned. Much of it is thanks to Liverpool’s pressing game improving. Something that may be down to one Liverpool midfielder in particular.
Why Jurgen Klopp loves Dominik Szoboszlai
Recently Dominik Szoboszlai has come under a little bit of criticism by some section of the Liverpool fanbase. But this criticism is completely unwarranted. Since he has returned from injury, Szoboszlai has been in great form, scoring goals and getting a couple of assists as well.
The Hungarian actually has five goal contributions in his last seven matches for Liverpool. He is also a key component of the Reds’ midfield on and off the ball. The energy he provides often makes Liverpool click, and the midfield functions a lot better and has a lot more control when he is on the pitch.
That was evident against Manchester United. Liverpool definitely felt his absence when he was taken off the pitch, and that’s when United’s midfield really started to thrive.
But it’s not just the eye test that confirms his quality. The numbers reflect that as well. According to the data, Szoboszlai is also one of the best pressing players in the Liverpool squad. Sky Sports recently revealed Liverpool’s top five pressers in the Premier League this season for pressures resulting in a turnover.
Dominik Szoboszlai was ranked in first place among the Liverpool squad with 5.1 of his pressures per 90 resulting in a turnover for Liverpool. Above Curtis Jones in second place with 4.4 per 90 and Harvey Elliott in third place with 4.3 per 90.
Considering this is such a key component of Klopp’s gegenpressing style, it’s easy to make the argument that Szoboszlai may be the Liverpool boss’ new favourite player at the club.
The Hungarian is simply very effective when it comes to his pressing game and has been for a long time now. That’s why it made so much sense for Liverpool to sign him in the first place. And he is a big reason why Liverpool have played a lot better this season. Szoboszlai simply makes things tick in this system.