Liverpool Star Dominik Szoboszlai Under Fire for Shocking Blunder Despite Victory Over Barnsley
Liverpool boss Arne Slot has stated he will have a discussion with Dominik Szoboszlai regarding the midfielder's error in the 4–1 victory against Barnsley, which League One manager Conor Hourihane labeled as "disrespectful."
Szoboszlai delivered one of his signature long-distance thunderbolts to break the deadlock but transformed from hero to zero before halftime with a terrible blunder that handed Barnsley a way back into the match.
While moving across his own penalty area, Szoboszlai tried to back-heel the ball to keeper Giorgi Mamardashvili for clearance, but the Hungarian star completely missed his intended touch and presented Adam Phillips with an easy finish.
The error proved inconsequential as Liverpool secured a comfortable 4–1 victory. Following the match, Hourihane refused to accept the generous gift and criticized Szoboszlai for taking a risk that implied, in the manager's view, a lack of seriousness toward Barnsley.
"I was frustrated with our goal because he [Szoboszlai] wouldn't attempt that against Chelsea or Arsenal," Hourihane stated to TNT Sports.
"Possibly [disrespectful]. I don't believe he tries that in a Premier League match or Champions League fixture, so I felt somewhat let down by that. It showed a bit of disrespect.
"Thrilled for Adam, but disrespectful from their player's perspective."
Slot: Discussion Required Over 'Strange' Error
Slot: Discussion Required Over 'Strange' Error
Hourihane wasn't the only one expressing disappointment. Slot refrained from publicly venting his concerns but made it crystal clear that he wouldn't accept such behavior from Szoboszlai in any situation.
"I don't believe you should attempt that in an FA Cup or League Cup match, a friendly encounter, or even during training," Slot commented.
"It's a strange decision and I have my thoughts about it, but I'd rather keep those private and discuss it directly with Dom."
Erling Haaland Pokes Fun at Szoboszlai's Goal Reaction
Erling Haaland Pokes Fun at Szoboszlai's Goal Reaction
Szoboszlai became the main talking point of the match for multiple reasons.
Before his blunder for Barnsley's goal dampened the story, he was the standout performer thanks to an absolutely spectacular long-range effort, though many observed Szoboszlai's unusually subdued celebration.
Manchester City forward Erling Haaland was among those puzzled by the reaction. The Norwegian international, known for his frequent Snapchat activity, used the social platform to share footage of the goal with a playful dig at Szoboszlai, his former RB Salzburg teammate.
"Domi what a strike, show some joy," Haaland joked.