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Hungary head coach Marco Rossi has fired back at Liverpool's Arne Slot following the Dutchman's public appeal for his players to be protected during the international break, pointing to Slot's own decision to deploy Dominik Szoboszlai at right back this season.
With concerns mounting over the fitness of several key players, Slot expressed his hope that some of his most important squad members would be given rest during the current international window—a sentiment that did not sit well with Rossi.
"Personally, I have never spoken to Slot, and I have never had any input into when and what decisions he makes, including when he chooses to play Dominik as a fullback," Rossi responded.
"I would expect him to extend me the same courtesy. It is not solely my decision—I am not required to field anyone. If Dominik expressed a desire to rest, I would naturally accommodate that. But we know he is the captain of this national side, and the national shirt is his top priority.
"If conserving his energy was necessary, whether for him or anyone else, that could be arranged. However, for us, the national team comes first, and right now the focus is on performing well in our matches."
Szoboszlai's Right Back Stint Divides Opinion
In what has been a turbulent season for Liverpool, Szoboszlai stands out as one of the few players who can genuinely be proud of his contributions.
The attacking midfielder has racked up 12 goals and eight assists across all competitions, consistently delivering in crucial moments while being called upon to fill various positions to help cover for injuries.
An early-season injury to Jeremie Frimpong prompted Slot to shift Szoboszlai to right back. He has featured in a defensive role on 10 occasions this season, with the manager opting for him over young Calvin Ramsay—the squad's only natural option in that position—on several occasions.
To his credit, Szoboszlai has adapted impressively to the unfamiliar position, though his defensive outings will be of little relevance to Hungary's Rossi, who is focused on assembling an attacking force capable of making a serious push at this summer's World Cup.
Szoboszlai's value to Liverpool is underscored by his minute tally. While Virgil van Dijk remains the only player to surpass the 4,000-minute threshold this season, Szoboszlai trails closely behind with 3,848 minutes.
Unfortunately for Slot, Szoboszlai is equally indispensable for Hungary, with fellow Liverpool star and left back Milos Kerkez also playing a pivotal role for the national side. Both players are central figures for their country, and Rossi will be acutely aware of the importance of fielding them as much as possible in the interest of the national team.