Dominik Szoboszlai, Liverpool’s Two-in-One Workhorse

[FreshRed]

Szobo's had a solid season, and I don’t think anyone could realistically argue otherwise, given the team's progress. Rather than developing into the De Bruyne-esque star he initially seemed destined to become, he has settled into more of a workhorse role; an important contributor who at times displays brilliant technique but it can also be frustratingly inconsistent combined with basic lapses of concentration in his general play. The sudden drop-off in his attacking game was surprising, but now with no recognised number nine in some recent Slots selections, his athleticism when driving forward could help boost his numbers in the short term.

If Slot can restore him to the levels he showed when he first arrived, he has the potential to thrive in a more traditional setup and become a true star. At 24 his best years should be ahead of him. I hope we need to use less obscure metrics to see his impact as he develops, and that his body can withstand the heavy and admirable demands he pushes it to every 3 days.

He’s the Dirk Kupt of our midfield. He could be frequently frustrating, but also irreplaceable.

 

[rurikbird]

Nunez he's played quite a bit, but who hasn't tried to figure out that puzzle for a bit before realizing it's not curious and challenging to unlock, it's just missing a part. Nunez has been added to that list. Chiesa is essentially non aplicable.

Diaz cannot be in the rotation list, he's played a ton, including completely out of position in lieu of not playing him, but he's off next year.

Elliot and Endo are clearly just not rated for his style. Quansah he thinks isn't ready, but does he think he will never be? I think if vvd stays, it'd be Gomez that leaves.

Yeah, Diaz played more minutes than Jota, so can definitely see an argument - but I think when Jota and Gakpo are both fit, Diaz will be on the bench. If the rule is that “first team” consists of 11 players, someone has to miss out.

 

[Farkmaster]

What will happen over a season of jota being fit, we will never know.

I'd love if jota could be in slotter mode for a few games. It would make things a lot more relaxed and fun. He's escaped attention for not being that lethal in front of goal. He often needs a few games to get back into form, which is annoying when he's frequently injured.