Liverpool’s Premier League campaign has suffered another setback as Dominik Szoboszlai was omitted from the matchday squad for Sunday’s visit from Manchester City because of hamstring tightness. Head coach Andoni Iraola confirmed the issue before kick-off, explaining that the midfielder had returned from international duty with an overload and had not felt fully fit despite attempting to train. His absence leaves Liverpool without an influential midfielder for a demanding fixture at Anfield.
Szoboszlai’s omission adds to the selection challenges facing Iraola, with Alexander Isak, Cody Gakpo and Hugo Ekitike also unavailable. Ryan Gravenberch comes into midfield alongside Alexis Mac Allister, while Victor Muñoz replaces Gakpo in attack. Lewis Koumas has been handed his first Premier League start after making previous appearances from the bench, joining an attacking line-up that also includes Florian Wirtz and Bradley Barcola.
Liverpool enter the match following a 1–0 win at Bournemouth before the international break, but the loss of several attacking and midfield options forces further changes to the side. Szoboszlai’s absence places greater responsibility on Gravenberch and Mac Allister to provide control in midfield, while Muñoz and Koumas have an opportunity to contribute in a high-profile encounter.
The tactical implications extend beyond replacing one player. Liverpool must adjust their midfield partnership while also reshaping their attack, making coordination between the two units particularly important. The revised line-up gives Iraola alternatives, but the absence of Szoboszlai, Isak and Gakpo means the Reds cannot rely on the same personnel that started the victory at Bournemouth.
For Liverpool supporters, Szoboszlai’s fitness is now another concern during a demanding period of the season. Iraola has not provided a recovery timetable, saying the club will have to wait after the midfielder failed to feel “100 per cent” in training. The immediate challenge is to compensate for his absence against City; beyond that, Liverpool will need to assess his availability for their forthcoming fixtures.
