This weekend, Liverpool battled hard to defeat Chelsea 2-1 at Anfield, with Curtis Jones’ goal turning out to be the game-winning goal. Having said that, the Reds were lucky to not have to rely on Dominik Szoboszlai, their star midfield player, whose lackluster performance drew criticism after the game.

The Hungarian’s unimpressive performance at times made Liverpool appear to be a man short in midfield, and his offensive input was also lacking.

Against Chelsea, Szoboszlai lacked conviction in the midfieldThe 23-year-old found it difficult to handle Chelsea’s physicality.

Szoboszlai received a 5/10 according to the Express’s player ratings from the match between Liverpool and Chelsea. Journalist Alex Turk noted:

More duels were lost by no player than Dominik Szoboszlai. dribbled past Chelsea’s build-up far too easily. Fortunately, Liverpool didn’t require his spark.

In addition, the 23-year-old had one of his least memorable games while wearing a Liverpool shirt as he managed only one shot at goal in 90 minutes while failing to create a single opportunity for his teammates.

Many supporters of Szoboszlai were not persuaded by his position on the team as they discussed his performance on X (previously Twitter).

“Szoboszlai really needs to get his confidence back up, a player with so much ability, needs to find that boost,” asserted one of these fans, claiming it was a confidence-related problem.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 20: (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Dominik Szoboszlai of Liverpool during the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Chelsea FC at Anfield on October 20, 2024 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

In agreement, a different fan stated that the midfield player “needs some time away from the starting 11”.

Szoboszlai’s 2024–25 Premier League campaign has started fairly slowly; in eight appearances, he has only managed one assist. Arne Slot has repeatedly chosen to keep the player in the starting eleven mostly because of his work rate and intensity when not in possession of the ball. His performance, though, could have to increase quickly in order to warrant a long-term spot on the squad.