Liam Duckstein
Szoboszlai Speaks on Salah’s Future
Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai has revealed he spoke to Mohamed Salah “almost every day” during the Egypt forward’s time at the Africa Cup of Nations. However, Szoboszlai remained tight-lipped about Salah’s future at Anfield.
The 33-year-old’s future has been uncertain following an explosive interview where he admitted his relationship with manager Arne Slot had broken down. When asked about Salah’s situation, Szoboszlai responded:
“That’s between me and him. He will come back and then we keep on going. It’s the decision between the manager and the club.”
Liverpool will confirm on Tuesday whether Salah will be part of the squad for their Champions League clash against Marseille on Wednesday.
Frequent Contact During AFCON
Szoboszlai confirmed he maintained regular contact with Salah after the forward left Merseyside on December 15.
“Yes, to be honest, almost every day. We speak about everything. I’m following him, I guess he is following me. We talk a lot.”
Slot Welcomes Salah’s Return
Manager Arne Slot stated last week that he is “happy” to have Salah back in the squad. The forward’s importance was evident in Liverpool’s recent 1-1 draw against Burnley.
Despite having 32 shots, with 11 on target and an xG of 2.95, Liverpool only managed to score once. Szoboszlai himself missed a penalty during the match.
“That’s the first time we have played really well against a low block and created a lot of chances. We had loads of guys in the box, we had crosses and shots. That is what we have to aim for against Marseille but they don’t have a low block – they try to play from the back and we have to be ready for this too.”
Szoboszlai Defends His Approach
The Hungary international also addressed criticism from Barnsley manager Conor Hourihane, who accused Szoboszlai of being “disrespectful” during their FA Cup tie. The incident involved a back heel attempt deep inside his own box, which led to a Barnsley goal.
“Personally, it’s been a tough week. I made a mistake against Barnsley but I have to make it clear it wasn’t disrespectful and I would do the same against Arsenal, Manchester City and Chelsea. I didn’t want to give it back to Giorgi [Mamardashvili]. I tried to pretend I was playing it back. I then missed a penalty against Burnley but I’m going to keep on going, I’m going to take the next one and I’m going to score – I’m pretty sure.”
Penalty Duties and Contract Talks
Szoboszlai’s missed penalty against Burnley was his second from 22 attempts. Despite this, he remains confident in his ability to take penalties when Salah is not on the pitch.
“Yes, one time against the post and now the crossbar. The next one is in. If he [Salah] comes back, he is the first penalty taker. He will give me some advice on what to think about when you miss as he’s missed a couple of times but he forgets what has happened.”
Szoboszlai also revealed that talks are ongoing over a new contract, with his current deal set to expire in 2028.