Dominik Szoboszlai is in hot water at RB Leipzig after publicly declaring his desire to play for Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp
The uproar stems from an interview Szoboszlai gave to the Hungarian publication Index earlier this week. During that conversation, the 22-year-old expressed a desire to collaborate with Klopp.
“Working under Klopp would undoubtedly be a unique experience,” he said. “It would be the same under [Pep] Guardiola or Jose Mourinho.” I’m not sure what they’d be able to get out of me. However, only a small percentage of footballers are afforded this [opportunity]. Only the best will do. I believe I am capable of reaching that level, and it would be wonderful to work with any of them one day.”
Dominik Szoboszlai is in hot water at RB Leipzig after publicly declaring his desire to play for Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp.
The uproar stems from an interview Szoboszlai gave to the Hungarian publication Index earlier this week. During that conversation, the 22-year-old expressed a desire to collaborate with Klopp.
“Working under Klopp would undoubtedly be a unique experience,” he said. “It would be the same under [Pep] Guardiola or Jose Mourinho.” I’m not sure what they’d be able to get out of me. However, only a small percentage of footballers are afforded this [opportunity]. Only the best will do. I believe I am capable of reaching that level, and it would be wonderful to work with any of them one day.”
According to Christian Falk of CaughtOffside, Leipzig were not pleased with Szoboszlai’s comments. They reportedly summoned the player to explain himself before tonight’s cup final against Eintracht Frankfurt.
“Dominik Szoboszlai’s intentions to leave Leipzig cause unrest at RB shortly before the cup final,” writes Falk. “Because he gave an interview, the offensive player was required to report to sports director Max Eberl and coach Marco Rose.” In the interview, he stated that he aspires to work for Jurgen Klopp or Pep Guardiola. He believes that these coaches will help him improve.
“Background: The midfielder’s contract includes a €70 million [£60 million] release clause.” Liverpool and Manchester City are both capable of paying that sum. Leipzig already has a replacement for with Christoph Baumgartner from Hoffenheim.
Szoboszlai offers his services.
Liverpool’s ability to pay Szoboszlai’s release clause and desire to do so may be two different things this summer.
In theory, the £60 million fee would be within their means. After deciding not to pursue a move for Jude Bellingham, that appears to be the price range in which the Reds are looking.
As a result of this, as well as their obvious, pressing need for midfielders, it’s easy to see why they’ve reportedly been scouting Szoboszlai.
The Hungary international has had another successful season with Leipzig. He joined from RB Salzburg in 2021 and has scored the same amount in both of his full Bundesliga seasons: Six goals and eight assists.
With these figures in mind, it’s easy to see why Szoboszlai is drawn to Liverpool. Klopp’s current squad lacks a midfielder capable of putting up those kinds of numbers.
The impending arrival of Alexis Mac Allister should help, but you can never have too many goals.
Szoboszlai would undoubtedly welcome a move to Anfield, and the presence of a release clause makes things easier. So, if Liverpool fails to sign any of the players who appear to be at the top of their list this summer, it will be a disaster.
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