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

Following a summer of major changes at Liverpool, Dominik Szoboszlai has been promoted to the club’s leadership group. Named one of three vice-captains by new manager Andoni Iraola, Szoboszlai joins veteran teammates Alisson Becker and Joe Gomez in supporting skipper Virgil van Dijk.

This elevation comes after the departures of Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson, two influential figures in the dressing room. The Hungarian midfielder’s new role places him at the heart of Liverpool’s rebuilding efforts on and off the pitch.

McManaman Urges Szoboszlai to Take Charge

Former Liverpool winger Steve McManaman has challenged Szoboszlai to become a key leader for the team. Speaking to Seven, he highlighted the need for fresh leaders to emerge following the exit of established stars.

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

McManaman sees Szoboszlai as a future successor to Van Dijk’s leadership and stresses the midfielder’s role in controlling the game tempo from midfield.

Guiding Liverpool's Younger Players

With several young talents making up Iraola's squad, McManaman believes the new leadership trio must uphold high standards and help nurture the next generation quickly.

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

Looking Ahead to the Season

McManaman thinks finishing in the Premier League’s top four and making an impact in domestic cups would be a solid start for Iraola’s tenure. He notes that the squad appears a bit thin for a full title challenge but expects players in their second season to improve significantly.

Liverpool will depend heavily on Szoboszlai's leadership as the coach integrates new signings and youth prospects into his system.

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