Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai has cautioned against prematurely declaring Arsenal as Premier League champions ahead of their crucial match on March 7, 2024, at the Emirates Stadium. Arsenal currently leads the league, sitting 14 points ahead of Liverpool, who are in fourth place.
Despite the significant gap, Szoboszlai emphasized the unpredictable nature of the Premier League, stating, “It’s a long way. The Premier League is not easy and you don’t win it by January.” He acknowledged the challenge posed by Arsenal, who have lost only two league matches this season, as they aim for their first title since the 2003-04 Invincibles era under former manager Arsène Wenger.
Liverpool’s recent form has been concerning, with the team struggling to replicate their title-winning performance from last season. Szoboszlai noted that his side cannot afford to overlook contenders like Manchester City and Aston Villa, who are just six points behind them. The midfielder urged his teammates to concentrate on each match rather than the overall standings, saying, “We have to think game by game and have to perform to show we can even be in the top four.”
Liverpool has already encountered six league losses this season, two more than in their title-winning campaign. Szoboszlai reflected on last year’s success, recalling that in February, Liverpool was ten points clear but still remained grounded. “Now, probably, because we are so many points behind, we can’t think long term,” he mentioned.
The midfielder acknowledged the pressure that comes with representing a club of Liverpool’s stature. “It is very tough, but different at other teams. This is why you come here and play for the biggest clubs in the world, for the pressure,” he said. While acknowledging the club’s struggles, Szoboszlai expressed confidence in their ability to regroup and adapt, stating, “We are going to grow as a group because we are Liverpool, we are the champions of England.”
Liverpool heads into the match with a nine-game unbeaten streak in all competitions, seeking to build momentum after a challenging start to the season. Szoboszlai highlighted the importance of returning to their previous form, emphasizing that they must impose their playing style on opponents who are now more aware of Liverpool’s capabilities.
One notable absence for Liverpool will be last season’s Footballer of the Year, Mohamed Salah, who is currently leading the Egyptian national team at the Africa Cup of Nations. The situation surrounding Salah’s future at Anfield remains uncertain after a public dispute with manager Arne Slot.
Szoboszlai expressed concern over his teammate’s challenges but remains hopeful about Salah’s return. “He is professional enough to handle his situation… he will handle this; he has the character to deal with it,” he said. The young midfielder values his relationship with Salah, stating, “From day one, he got me under his wing and tried to help me with as many things as I asked him.”
As Liverpool prepares to face Arsenal, the stakes are high for both teams. While Arsenal aims to solidify their position at the top of the table, Liverpool is determined to turn their season around and reclaim their status as title contenders. The upcoming match promises to be a pivotal moment in the race for the Premier League crown.
