Liverpool are betting on Szoboszlai ahead of their match against Man City.

The image of Dominik Szoboszlai collapsing to his knees from exhaustion after the 2-0 victory over Manchester City in February remains symbolic: energy, discipline, and influence. This weekend, the Hungarian midfielder returns to the Etihad Stadium as a tactical anchor for Liverpool under Arne Slot.

The pillar through numbers and how to manage physical condition.

In his early days at Anfield, Szoboszlai impressed with long-range shots against Aston Villa and Leicester City, but a hamstring injury caused his form to decline. Being brought back too soon when Liverpool were still competing on four fronts led to a relapse against Chelsea and a 12-match absence, stretching into March, amidst a depleted squad plagued by injuries.

In the following season, under the skillful management of Arne Slot and the care of the medical team, Szoboszlai maintained consistent fitness: participating in 36 out of 38 national league matches, scoring six goals and providing seven assists. This endurance formed the foundation for his increasing tactical influence.

Upgraded version: positional discipline and decision quality matter.

At 25, Szoboszlai elevated the game. There were times he had to drop back to right-back due to injuries to Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong, but he remained a standout figure in Slot's system. When Liverpool needed a moment of individual brilliance, his long-range free-kick against Arsenal at Anfield was the answer.

Despite Liverpool's recent losing streak, Szoboszlai has stood out thanks to his intensity and proactive approach. When Slot needed the team back on track ahead of a crucial week, the Hungarian midfielder continued to make his mark: scoring and assisting in the 5-1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League.

Statistics speak for themselves: energy, creativity, and decision-making.

Two consecutive Man of the Match performances at Anfield against Aston Villa and Real Madrid showcased Szoboszlai's all-around abilities. Against Villa, he ran 11.18km, the most in the team. Against Real Madrid, he covered the second-highest distance, assisted Mac Allister's winning goal with an unstoppable cross, took five shots (four on target), and provided three key passes.

These facts highlight the key roles in how Liverpool create dominance in the right half: off-ball movement, long-range shots, set pieces, and vision for delivering the final pass.

Tactical dilemma against Man City: return Szoboszlai to midfield

To end their four-match losing streak in the national championship, Slot reverted to the midfield structure that had won the title the previous season. A key adjustment was not using Szoboszlai out of position on the right wing of the defense, thereby restoring dynamism and pressing intensity in the midfield.

When moved closer to Salah on the right wing of the attack, the number 8 immediately reactivated his signature passing combinations, while also providing a foundation for pressing and transitions. This structure made Liverpool more balanced both in possession and on the counter-attack.

Slot's personnel and message

Coach Arne Slot emphasized: "He has been outstanding throughout the season. But the last two games have brought even more to the team and to himself. Dominik has many qualities, and one of them is his ability to work off the ball. In the last two games, that has exceeded even his own standards."

With his growing influence, Szoboszlai is likely to remain central to the trip to the Etihad. Even expensive signing Florian Wirtz will have to compete with Cody Gakpo for a starting spot on the left wing, rather than replacing Szoboszlai. The message is clear: Liverpool are betting on the rhythm that the number 8 creates.

The moment of waiting at Etihad

From collapsing to his knees from exhaustion to his 11.18km run and decisive touches, Szoboszlai entered the big match fully equipped: physical condition, rhythm, and role. That was key for Liverpool to find the solution at the Etihad Stadium.