For the third time in three years, Liverpool must appoint a vice-captain to club skipper Virgil van Dijk this summer. The decision now falls to new head coach Andoni Iraola, following the departure of Andy Robertson to Tottenham Hotspur after the World Cup.
Background of Leadership Changes
The previous vice-captain, Trent Alexander-Arnold, left for Real Madrid, leading Arne Slot to appoint Andy Robertson over Mohamed Salah last year. Slot reasoned that Salah was unlikely to need the armband as both he and Van Dijk started most games together, while Robertson was more likely to play when both were rested. However, Robertson's exit leaves a gap.
Potential Candidates for Vice-Captain
Alisson Becker is an obvious choice given his longevity and behind-the-scenes influence. Approaching his ninth season as Liverpool's No.1, the Brazilian is widely regarded as one of the finest goalkeepers in the world. However, if Iraola opts against Alisson, Dominik Szoboszlai could be promoted.
Dominik Szoboszlai's Case
The Hungary international already captains his national team and was one of the few players whose performances did not decline during a difficult campaign under Slot last season. When asked about becoming a leader, Szoboszlai said: "We have enough leaders with Virgil, with Mo, with Robbo, with Ali. They have been here longer... I just try to do my best on the pitch. If it seems like I am a leader, then I'll keep doing that on the pitch, not outside the pitch."
Former boss Slot also praised Szoboszlai's leadership potential, stating: "He has a lot of attributes already, especially when it comes to leading by example. There is still a step to make in terms of leadership, being vocal and a voice in the dressing room... That would be the next step for him; to be as vocal and as loud as Virgil but that comes with time."
Contract and Future
Szoboszlai, 25, is entering the final two years of his deal and is keen to stay at Anfield. Talks between sporting director Richard Hughes and his agent, Matyas Esterhazy, have been ongoing. Promoting him to vice-captain would signal Liverpool's intent to secure his best years.
New Era Under Iraola
With Salah and Robertson—emblems of a previous era—now departed, a new era under Iraola is approaching. The next generation of Liverpool leaders must emerge, and Szoboszlai is well placed to step up.
