Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai has been tipped to become the best defensive midfielder in the world, according to his national team coach Marco Rossi.
The 24-year-old has enjoyed a strong start to the new season under Arne Slot, responding to early criticism with standout performances against Newcastle and Arsenal. His thunderous free-kick sealed a 1-0 win over the Gunners before the international break, underlining his importance to Liverpool’s midfield.
But Rossi’s comments after Hungary’s 2-2 draw with the Republic of Ireland have shifted the narrative — suggesting Szoboszlai’s best position could actually be as a number six, despite never playing that role at Anfield.
Rossi’s Claim on Szoboszlai
“Dominik Szoboszlai’s defensive play was positive. He can play in any position, as he has proven in the Premier League, but we think he can be one of the best in the world in the number six, defensive midfield position.” — Marco Rossi, via Origo Sport
Rossi praised his captain’s maturity after Hungary went down to ten men, insisting his defensive awareness and adaptability mark him out as elite.
Slot’s Use of Szoboszlai
So far under Slot, Szoboszlai has been deployed across midfield and even as a makeshift right-back. He impressed filling in during Jeremie Frimpong’s injury absence, drawing comparisons with Trent Alexander-Arnold thanks to his forward surges and creativity from deep.
At Liverpool, however, the defensive midfield role is firmly occupied by Ryan Gravenberch, who broke out last season as the club’s first-choice No.6. Szoboszlai has mostly been used as a box-to-box eight, continuing the role he had under Jurgen Klopp.
Szoboszlai vs Gravenberch — Defensive Stats
| Player (2024/25) | Tackles | Tackles Won | Dribblers Tackled | Challenges Lost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dominik Szoboszlai | 47 | 78% | 44.6% | 31 |
| Ryan Gravenberch | 91 | 59% | 58.6% | 29 |
source: FBref – 6 September 2025
Szoboszlai attempts fewer tackles but wins a higher percentage than Gravenberch. His pressing ability and stamina also make him a viable candidate to anchor midfield if required.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William:
Marco Rossi may be right — Szoboszlai’s energy and anticipation could translate well to a defensive midfield role. But at Liverpool, it’s complicated. Gravenberch is thriving as the holding midfielder, and Slot values Szoboszlai’s attacking output too much to anchor him deep every week.
The tactical flexibility, though, is invaluable. Against sides who dominate possession, Slot may yet use Szoboszlai as a No.6 to stabilise midfield. Long term, his all-round skillset means Liverpool could mould him into one of the most complete midfielders in Europe.
Key Insights
- Marco Rossi claims Szoboszlai could be world’s best defensive midfielder.
- Liverpool have never used him at No.6, preferring Gravenberch.
- Szoboszlai impressed filling in at right-back vs Newcastle & Arsenal.
- Stats show higher tackle win % than Gravenberch.
- Slot may use him deeper in specific tactical situations.
What’s Next
Liverpool face a testing run of fixtures after the break, including a clash with Manchester United and a Champions League group stage opener. With Mac Allister still managing fitness issues, Szoboszlai’s versatility could prove crucial.
Whether Slot experiments with him in a deeper role remains to be seen, but Rossi’s comments ensure the debate over his best position will only intensify this season.
Should Arne Slot trial Szoboszlai as Liverpool’s No.6 — or keep him further forward?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 7 Sep 2025 12:06
Not gonna compare him with Stevie, but Stevie was allround as he's and I think that a 6 position could be a good try.
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