The Liverpool midfielder has had a terrific start to life at Anfield, but the transfer to the Premier League has not been without challenges off the field.
Dominik Szoboszlai, Liverpool’s new signing, recently expressed his emotions of loneliness after joining the club from RB Leipzig in a $74 million (£60 million/€69 million) deal. Despite starting his Liverpool career with four goals in 14 games, the Hungarian midfielder admits to struggle with the transition to life in a new nation.
Szoboszlai admitted to the Hungarian podcast Fodball, “I’d be lying if I said I didn’t feel lonely sometimes.” There are days when I just sit on the couch, unsure of what to do. Then I put on a movie and try to sleep, hoping for a better day tomorrow.”
Szoboszlai’s adjustment to a new role in Liverpool’s midfield has also been discussed. Manager Jürgen Klopp lauded the 23-year-old’s versatility, adding that he has played as an eight, a six, and even a double six.
“I don’t believe he played the position he does for us in Leipzig.” “He played on the wing, as a number 10 more inside, (but with us he’s also played) as an eight, a six, and a double six, so it’s really interesting to see how quickly he adapts and develops,” Klopp said in September.
“That’s fantastic; we still have a lot to learn, but the signs are encouraging.” We were aware of him because he had previously played for Salzburg as well as Leipzig. We knew he had amazing shooting ability…and it’s now clear!
The midfielder’s skills have drawn similarities to Liverpool icon Steven Gerrard, and he has received plaudits from both analysts and fans. However, behind the scenes, Szoboszlai appears to be struggling with the difficulties of adjusting to a new environment.
Despite his difficulties, Szoboszlai is adamant about making the most of his time at Liverpool. Szoboszlai joined a renovated engine room at Anfield during the summer transfer window. His potential to contribute goals and his exceptional shooting abilities were important considerations in Liverpool’s choice to sign him. Szoboszlai’s efforts thus far have satisfied Klopp and his coaching staff, who are enthusiastic about his future.
It’s interesting to hear Szoboszlai speak openly and honestly about how he’s settled in at Liverpool, and how joining a new club isn’t as simple as he may have made it appear. The midfielder is in an unusual position — many of the club’s recent additions have had colleagues who speak the same language as them, but Szoboszlai hasn’t had that luxury.
The 23-year-old clearly speaks English well, and judging by photographs from training, he’s becoming friends with Trent Alexander-Arnold and Mohamed Salah. Hopefully, his loneliness isn’t causing too many problems right now – it certainly isn’t impacting his performance.
