Liverpool’s Key Player Looked Off Against Burnley – Slot Must Consider Dropping Him
In what could be seen as another low point in their disappointing season, Liverpool’s 1-1 draw with Burnley at Anfield on Saturday afternoon has sparked fresh criticism from the home crowd. Fans were particularly unimpressed with one player, who they felt looked “lost” during the match.
Liverpool remain fourth in the Premier League with 36 points, just one ahead of Manchester United following their 2-0 derby win. The Reds will regret missing the chance to pressure third-place Aston Villa, especially given Burnley’s struggles since their promotion last season. The Clarets responded through Marcus Edwards in the 65th minute, cancelling out Florian Wirtz’s first-half goal and ensuring the points were shared.
Liverpool’s Struggles Continue in 1-1 Draw vs Burnley
Few Liverpool players can claim to have impressed after dropping two points in a crucial top-four battle. With £400 million spent on new signings this summer, expectations were high for Arne Slot’s squad—but Saturday’s result only highlighted the club’s questionable recruitment.
Hugo Ekitike, despite being heavily involved, struggled to make an impact. The defence was sloppy for Edwards’ equaliser, and the midfield failed to make the most of its quality.
Dominik Szoboszlai, in particular, had a disappointing afternoon. With Alexis Mac Allister on the bench, Slot chose to play Szoboszlai in a two-man midfield alongside Ryan Gravenberch. But fans are far from convinced he belongs in that role. “Is Szoboszlai massively overrated? A good player but nothing more in my opinion,” one supporter wrote.
Normally a lively force in midfield, the Hungarian has been one of Liverpool’s standout performers this season. His ability to play across the midfield—and even at right-back—has been invaluable. But his display against Burnley was far from his usual standard.
Szoboszlai had a chance to make amends in the 32nd minute when Liverpool were awarded a penalty. With Mohamed Salah absent at AFCON, he stepped up but his shot smashed against the crossbar and bounced away, leaving no chance for a follow-up.
It was his first missed penalty since 2021. Yet beyond that, his overall performance is not one Liverpool fans will want to see again—especially considering how key he has been to Slot’s plans this season.
Despite being heavily involved (123 touches, including seven inside Burnley’s box), Szoboszlai offered little of significance. A period away from the spotlight might be the best option for the 25-year-old right now. Salah’s return from AFCON could help relieve some pressure, and Mac Allister should likely be restored to the starting XI in the meantime.
Fans Slam Szoboszlai for “Lack of Confidence”
Following his performance, Liverpool supporters quickly took to social media—particularly X—to voice their concerns. “This has been Szoboszlai’s worst game. He looks lost,” one fan wrote. Another added, “Szoboszlai looks short on confidence.”
“Is Szoboszlai massively overrated? A good player but nothing more in my opinion,” wrote another, while a third said, “Szoboszlai is having a weird game. He’s not sharp and sometimes slows the play down.”
One supporter even accused him of acting like he’s already guaranteed a big move next season: “Honestly, Szoboszlai is playing like he got the free transfer to Real Madrid next season.”
Other fans were even harsher, with comments like: “Never seen a worse Liverpool team. Szoboszlai, Gakpo, Jones all absolutely shocking.”
Since joining from RB Leipzig in summer 2023, Szoboszlai arrived with major hype as one of Europe’s brightest talents. But after playing 28 matches across all competitions this season, he clearly looks worn out. A spell on the bench might be exactly what he needs—allowing Liverpool to use his quality later in games when it matters most.