Why Szoboszlai’s Time Off Could Benefit Liverpool’s Title Push | OneFootball

Why Szoboszlai Could Benefit from a Short Rest Period for Liverpool

Dominik Szoboszlai has been a crucial component of Liverpool’s midfield this season, providing energy, creativity, and moments of brilliance. Yet, with the relentless nature of modern football, even the most robust players can benefit from a short enforced break, as evidenced by Alexis Mac Allister. Let’s explore why Szoboszlai’s brief absence could work in Liverpool’s favour and help the Hungarian return stronger for the challenges ahead.

Mac Allister’s Break and Its Impact

When Alexis Mac Allister served a two-game suspension in December, it allowed him a rare opportunity to step back and recover, both physically and mentally. Despite what Arne Slot recently said about him—“For me, he didn’t find better performances afterwards [the suspension], but I think every player benefits for the long term to have sometimes a few days or a period off as well”—there’s compelling evidence that the Argentine has looked sharper since that enforced pause.

Photo: IMAGO

It’s no secret that Mac Allister was nursing a minor abductor strain prior to his suspension. Since returning, his performances have shown a noticeable increase in consistency. His contributions defensively and offensively have been critical, acting as the engine for Liverpool’s midfield. A well-timed break seemed to have done wonders, even if Slot downplayed its immediate impact.

Szoboszlai’s Recent Schedule

Szoboszlai hasn’t played since the victory over Leicester City on Boxing Day. Although he missed Sunday’s clash against Manchester United due to illness, this unintended pause in his game time could be a blessing in disguise. It’s been nearly two weeks without a game, a luxury in the hectic festive football calendar. Considering the demands placed on Szoboszlai as a box-to-box midfielder, this short break offers a rare chance for his body to recharge.

Photo: IMAGO

Arne Slot addressed Szoboszlai’s availability ahead of Liverpool’s upcoming fixture against Tottenham, saying, “Yesterday he wasn’t in yet. If he’s in today, I would doubt if he’s available to start the game. But hopefully he’s in today. Yesterday he wasn’t.” While this casts doubt on Szoboszlai’s immediate involvement, it’s a prime example of how rest and recovery are prioritised to prevent burnout.

Why Rest Is Essential for Szoboszlai

Since joining Liverpool, Szoboszlai has been one of the standout performers, combining relentless work rate with flair. Yet, footballers are not machines, and prolonged spells of non-stop playing can lead to fatigue or even injury. Taking cues from Mac Allister’s example, this short hiatus could help Szoboszlai regain full fitness, rediscover his sharpness, and return even hungrier to make an impact.

Liverpool fans will remember Szoboszlai’s excellent contributions in the reverse fixture against Spurs, including a goal and assist. With games in February, March, and April likely to define the Reds’ season, a fresh and rejuvenated Szoboszlai could prove pivotal. His creativity in the final third and willingness to track back defensively make him an irreplaceable asset in Slot’s system.

What’s Next for Szoboszlai?

As Liverpool gear up for their next matches, the coaching staff will undoubtedly monitor Szoboszlai closely. The hope is that this enforced rest—despite being illness-induced—will mirror Mac Allister’s rejuvenation and bring out the best in the Hungarian maestro. With a long campaign still ahead, Liverpool’s ability to rotate and recover key players like Szoboszlai will be critical to their success.

In the high-octane world of the Premier League, moments of rest, even if unintended, can often be the difference between a good player and a great one. For Szoboszlai, this short break might just be the pause that refreshes, setting him up for another string of standout performances in the months to come.