Slot Criticises Szoboszlai Following Barnsley Boss’ “Disrespectful” Claim
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot echoed Barnsley boss Conor Hourihane’s criticism of Dominik Szoboszlai after what both described as a “disrespectful” moment during their FA Cup third-round clash.
The Reds cruised to a 4-1 victory at Anfield, with Szoboszlai, Jeremie Frimpong, Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike all finding the net with top-quality finishes. However, the match was not without its drama, as Barnsley put up a spirited fight.
The turning point came just before half-time. With Liverpool leading 2-0, Szoboszlai attempted an unnecessary backheel inside his own six-yard box. The move went badly wrong, allowing former Liverpool academy player Adam Phillips to pounce and score in front of the Kop, reducing the deficit to 2-1.
Hourihane was unimpressed, suggesting his opponent would never attempt such a move in a bigger fixture. Speaking to TNT Sports, he said he was disappointed, adding that he did not believe Szoboszlai would try something similar against Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, or in a Champions League match.
Slot was informed of those comments after the game and agreed with his counterpart. The Dutchman labelled the decision “weird” and confirmed he would address it with the midfielder.
“I don’t think you should do that in an FA Cup game, a league match, a friendly, or even in training,” Slot said. “It was a strange choice. I have my own opinion, but I’ll keep it private and speak to Dom.”
TNT Sports pundits also felt Szoboszlai would not have made the same error in a higher-profile contest.
Despite being one of Liverpool’s standout performers this season, Szoboszlai accepted responsibility after the match, apologising during a TNT Sports interview.
“Sorry to the team again,” he said. “I made it difficult for us with an easy mistake. But this is football—we move on and focus on the next round.”
Liverpool have been drawn to face Brighton in the fourth round and return to Premier League action on Saturday when they welcome Burnley to Anfield.