Dominik Szoboszlai reveals ‘no decision’ reached over new Liverpool contract

Dominik Szoboszlai Denies Error Against Barnsley Was a Result of Disrespect

Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai has firmly rejected claims that his bizarre backheel mistake in the FA Cup third-round win over Barnsley was born out of disrespect, clarifying his intent amid criticism from the opposition manager[3][1].

The incident occurred just before halftime in Liverpool's 4-1 victory at Anfield on January 12, 2026. Szoboszlai, who had earlier scored a stunning 35-yard opener, sprinted back to dispossess a Barnsley attacker inside his own six-yard box. Under pressure, he attempted a flashy backheel to goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili instead of clearing safely. The flick misfired, allowing former Liverpool academy product Adam Phillips to score and reduce the deficit to 2-1 after Jeremie Frimpong's earlier goal[1][2][3].

Barnsley head coach Conor Hourihane, a former Premier League player, labeled the error "disrespectful," suggesting Szoboszlai wouldn't risk such a move against top teams like Chelsea or Arsenal. He celebrated Phillips' goal but felt it showed complacency from the Premier League giants[1][2]. Liverpool captain Andy Robertson called it "unacceptable," noting it gave Barnsley renewed hope despite the Reds' control, while manager Arne Slot vowed internal discussions, viewing it as part of broader complacency issues[2][4].

Speaking post-match after Liverpool's recent 1-1 draw with Burnley—where he missed a penalty—Szoboszlai insisted: "I have to make it clear it wasn't disrespectful. I wanted to keep going but tried to pretend I was playing it back to the keeper." He emphasized resilience, vowing to "keep on going" and score from the next spot-kick[3].

Liverpool recovered with late goals from Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike, advancing to the fourth round. Barnsley also had a penalty claim denied when Szoboszlai tangled with winger Reyes Cleary, which Hourihane deemed a "stonewall" call absent VAR[1]. The episode highlights the fine line between flair and folly in cup ties[4].

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