Arne Slot Needs to Change £60m Liverpool Player's Position vs Burnley This Weekend - Opinion

Arne Slot must reposition Liverpool's £60m signing Dominik Szoboszlai to right-back for the upcoming Premier League clash against Burnley, following a tactical misstep in the recent FA Cup win over Barnsley. The opinion piece argues that Slot's experiment with Szoboszlai in an unconventional role exposed vulnerabilities that Burnley could exploit at Turf Moor.

Liverpool's dominant 3-1 victory against Barnsley on Monday showcased Slot's commitment to a strong lineup, learning from last season's shocking FA Cup upset to Plymouth. Slot fielded nearly the same XI that beat Arsenal, with only minor substitutions, promising fans a robust bench including key players like Virgil van Dijk.[1][2] However, Szoboszlai's deployment at right-back—typically his midfield position—led to errors, including a near-goal conceded and defensive lapses that Barnsley's attackers capitalized on before halftime.

The £60m Hungarian international, known for his dynamic central midfield play, struggled in the full-back role. Pacey wingers repeatedly targeted his side, highlighting a lack of natural defensive instincts. With Jeremie Frimpong returning from injury and available as a substitute against Burnley, the piece insists Slot shift Szoboszlai permanently to right-back for this match.[3][4] This move would allow Szoboszlai's attacking flair to shine from a wider position while bolstering Liverpool's defense against Burnley's counter-attacks.

Slot's rotation philosophy has drawn criticism amid Liverpool's streaky form—five straight wins followed by six losses in seven, then draws—echoing concerns over his handling of triumphs and disasters.[5] Against champions Liverpool, who named an unchanged lineup versus Burnley with Alisson, Van Dijk, Konate, Kerkez, Wirtz, Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Salah, Gakpo, Ekitike, and Gravenberch starting, tactical tweaks are essential. Moving Szoboszlai to right-back could unlock his potential, stabilize the backline, and secure three points. Subs like Frimpong, Chiesa, and Robertson provide depth. This bold change is non-negotiable for Slot to regain momentum.

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