Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai has urged caution ahead of his team’s clash with Arsenal on March 7, 2024, asserting that it is premature to label the Gunners as Premier League champions. The two sides will meet at the Emirates Stadium, where Arsenal currently leads the league, sitting 14 points clear of Liverpool, who are in fourth place.
Despite Arsenal’s impressive form this season, having lost only two league matches thus far, Szoboszlai emphasizes that the title race is far from over. “It’s a long way,” he stated. “The Premier League is not easy, and you don’t win it by January. They are playing against the champions. They know as well, they are one of the favourites and an unbelievable team with unbelievable players.”
As the reigning champions, Liverpool faces a challenging title defense this season. Szoboszlai’s comments reflect the reality that Manchester City and Aston Villa, who are just six points behind Arsenal, remain formidable competitors. “They can’t forget about City and Villa; they are doing really well,” he added, highlighting the competitive nature of the league.
In light of Liverpool’s struggles this season, which include six league losses—two more than they suffered throughout their title-winning campaign last year—Szoboszlai acknowledged the need for his team to manage the pressure. “It happens sometimes,” he said. “You have to realize what you are aiming for. Game by game, as we cannot look long term.”
Liverpool’s recent performance includes a nine-match unbeaten streak across all competitions, a notable improvement following a rough patch earlier in the season. Szoboszlai remarked, “We were deep down, so from there, everything is progress. We are trying to get back to where we belong, not just in position but also to play the same football like last season.”
Despite the team’s challenges, the absence of star forward Mohamed Salah—currently competing in the Africa Cup of Nations—adds another layer of difficulty. Salah’s future at Anfield has been uncertain following a public dispute with manager Arne Slot regarding the team’s recent struggles. Szoboszlai expressed his disappointment over the situation, stating, “It was not nice to see it, but he is professional enough to handle his situation.”
The Hungarian midfielder has developed a close relationship with Salah since joining Liverpool, highlighting their mutual support on and off the pitch. “From day one, he got me under his wing and tried to help me with as many things as I asked him,” Szoboszlai shared. “Everyone hopes that he is going to come back after AFCON and help us the way he did last season.”
As Liverpool prepares for their encounter with Arsenal, the focus remains on the immediate challenge ahead rather than long-term aspirations. Szoboszlai’s perspective underscores the unpredictable nature of the Premier League and the importance of maintaining concentration on each match.
With the title race heating up, both teams will be eager to secure crucial points in their pursuit of success. The upcoming match at the Emirates Stadium will not only be a test of skill but also of mental fortitude in a league where every point counts.
