Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has eased concerns surrounding Dominik Szoboszlai after confirming that the Hungarian midfielder sustained only a minor injury during the Reds’ 4-2 pre-season victory over Sunderland in Nashville.
Szoboszlai was one of Liverpool’s standout performers on the night, producing another energetic display in midfield and capping it off with a spectacular goal as the Reds came from behind to begin the Iraola era with an impressive win. However, supporters were left worried when the midfielder appeared uncomfortable during the latter stages of the contest.
Speaking after the match, Iraola revealed that the issue does not appear to be serious and expressed confidence that the Liverpool star will return to training soon.
“Dominik felt a small problem during the game. At the moment, it looks like a minor injury and nothing serious. We preferred not to take any risks because it’s pre-season. We’ll assess him again, but hopefully he’ll be back very soon.”
The update will come as welcome news for Liverpool supporters, who have already seen defender Joe Gomez suffer an early injury in the same fixture. Iraola stressed that protecting key players during pre-season is one of the club’s biggest priorities as they build fitness ahead of the new campaign.
Szoboszlai looked sharp throughout the match, dictating Liverpool’s attacks with his passing, movement and relentless work rate. His superb long-range strike highlighted the quality he brings to the side and underlined why he remains one of the team’s most influential midfielders.
Although the midfielder was able to leave the pitch without significant assistance, Liverpool’s medical staff will continue to monitor his condition over the coming days. The coaching staff are expected to avoid rushing him back, especially with several more pre-season fixtures still to come before the Premier League season begins.
Iraola emphasised that pre-season results are important for confidence, but ensuring every player is fully fit for the competitive campaign is the club’s main objective.
Liverpool’s opening friendly offered plenty of encouraging signs, with several young players impressing alongside experienced stars. Iraola praised the intensity of his squad and believes the performance showed the team’s willingness to adapt to his demanding style of football.
The new Liverpool boss admitted there is still work to do, but he was pleased with the overall attitude and commitment shown by his players despite the heavy training loads they have undertaken in recent weeks.
For Szoboszlai, the latest update suggests there is little cause for alarm. The Hungarian international is expected to undergo further assessment before Liverpool’s next friendly, but early indications are that the problem is only a minor setback rather than a long-term injury.
If his recovery progresses as expected, the midfielder should be available to continue building match fitness during the remainder of Liverpool’s pre-season schedule, giving Iraola another major boost as he prepares for his first competitive season in charge at Anfield.