Coach insists Szoboszlai could be world’s best in new role despite Liverpool stance
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Hungary national team coach Marco Rossi has confirmed that Dominik Szoboszlai will not be deployed as a right-back in their upcoming World Cup 2026 qualifier against the Republic of Ireland. Despite Szoboszlai’s recent successful role as a makeshift defender under Liverpool manager Arne Slot, Rossi insists the versatile 24-year-old playmaker will start in midfield, his preferred and most effective position.
Rossi emphasized the importance of placing Szoboszlai where he is most comfortable and useful rather than simply "using" him, highlighting the respect for the player’s strengths. This approach is part of Hungary’s strategy to end a 40-year absence from the FIFA World Cup finals, a qualification dream they share with Ireland, who last appeared in 2002.
Hungary began their 2026 World Cup qualification campaign strongly, taking a two-goal lead in their match against Ireland. The first goal came early through Barnabás Varga, with Roland Sallai doubling the advantage after a well-executed corner assisted by Szoboszlai, who also captains the national team.
The political atmosphere surrounding the match was tense, as Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán attended despite protests in Dublin due to his controversial positions on LGBT issues and the Russo-Ukrainian war. Nonetheless, the political distractions did not overshadow Hungary’s on-pitch performance or Rossi’s focus on motivating his players for the important qualifier.
Overall, Szoboszlai’s role remains central to Hungary’s plans as they pursue their World Cup qualification dream. His midfield mastery was praised even when adjusting to new positions, demonstrating his versatility and leadership on the pitch.
PP