Szoboszlai wants to lead by example as Liverpool begin new era

Photo: Timmy96 / CC0 / Wikimedia Commons

Dominik Szoboszlai has said he wants to "step up" and set an example for Liverpool as the club enters a new phase under head coach Andoni Iraola ahead of the 2026-27 season.

The Hungary captain signed a new long-term contract with Liverpool earlier this month and is currently on pre-season tour in the United States as one of the squad's most senior players.

"I'm very happy. It was a long way until we got over the line but I'm happy to sign a new deal. Hopefully I can stay as long as both sides want and win everything that is possible," Szoboszlai told reporters at a press conference in Chicago on Wednesday.

Liverpool have won both matches on the tour so far — a 4-2 victory over Sunderland in Nashville, in which Szoboszlai scored, and a 1-0 defeat of Wrexham in New York. The squad will complete its US trip by facing Leeds United at Soldier Field on Sunday.

Entering his fourth season at the club, Szoboszlai acknowledged the departures of several experienced players and stressed the need for those remaining to fill the void. "A couple of club legends left the club, but I think the club is still the club it has been always — one of the biggest clubs in the world," he said.

"Someone left, someone came, we have to step up, we have to be an example for the younger generation maybe. I try to be an example on the pitch, off the pitch. I try to help everyone."

Szoboszlai also pointed to the return of Ryan Gravenberch, Florian Wirtz, and Alexandre Isak to the squad ahead of Sunday's match. "I'm looking forward to it and hopefully we can be even better than the last two games," he added.