If any opponent could have sensed what was coming when Dominik Szoboszlai stood over that free kick at Anfield back in the summer, it was Arsenal. For nearly five years prior to his transfer to Liverpool, the Gunners had been closely tracking the progress of a player hailed as Hungary’s best prospect in generations.
Before the summer of 2020, voices within Arsenal’s recruitment team advocated strongly for signing the then-Red Bull Salzburg midfielder, according to CBS Sports sources. Szoboszlai had been on Arsenal’s wishlist even a year earlier, as they considered him a potential replacement for the departing Aaron Ramsey — he was developing rapidly, boasting 12 goals and 18 assists in what would be his last season in Austria. By year’s end, he would depart for sister club RB Leipzig, but scouts had forged a path for a potential move.
Why Arsenal Wanted 19-Year-Old Szoboszlai
Although the then-19-year-old would need time to acclimate to the physical demands of the Premier League, senior figures were captivated by his potential as a left winger, number 10, or box-to-box midfielder. Arsenal’s scouting reports commended his vision, shooting skills, and explosive pace that could slice through defenses.
Most notably, they admired Szoboszlai’s capacity to perform under pressure. Even as a youth, he was known for stepping up in crucial moments, excelling in set-piece situations.
Five years later, Arsenal might rue that decision. During the summer of that significant recruitment overhaul led by Edu, the club chose to sign Willian, missing out on Szoboszlai who has since impressed at Liverpool, showcasing his talents as one of the league’s standout players. When asked if the upcoming game was a matchup between champions and future champions, Szoboszlai’s reply was assertive: ‘I don’t think we’re playing against the champions. They’re playing against us.’
This display of confidence, bordering on arrogance, is yet another reason Arsenal’s scouts were drawn to the Hungarian. As the Gunners prepare for Liverpool’s visit, this could serve as additional motivation for the players.
It’s Been a Long Half-Season Since Liverpool Last Faced Arsenal
Reflecting on the previous encounter, it feels like a relic from a different season. Just three games into the campaign, observers had spotted signs of an ascendant Liverpool, albeit one that stumbled initially.
Without Bukayo Saka, as well as Martin Odegaard and Eberechi Eze for much of the game, Arsenal’s ineffectiveness was woven into a narrative of a side lacking the resolve to seize victories against rivals. Manager Mikel Arteta appears intent on rectifying that narrative, stating, ‘It’s a massive game against the champions of the last Premier League and we have a point to prove.’ As his team strives to maintain their lead, their determination must reflect that mentality.
In the months following their previous defeat at Anfield, Arsenal amassed a record of played 18, winning 15 and drawing 3, demonstrating great consistency.
While consistency has not been an issue, a sprinkle of Szoboszlai’s magic could greatly benefit Arsenal during this title race, even if he remains out of reach.
