In a season defined by tactical evolution and a changing of the guard at Anfield, Mohamed Salah has delivered a definitive verdict on the engine room behind Liverpool’s current success. Following a dominant 3-0 FA Cup victory over Brighton on February 14, 2026, the Egyptian winger hailed teammate Dominik Szoboszlai as “one of the best players in the world right now.”
Salah’s comments weren’t just standard post-match platitudes; they represented a public validation of the Hungarian captain’s transformation into the cornerstone of Arne Slot’s system.
The Brighton Masterclass
The praise followed a performance at Anfield where Szoboszlai once again dictated the tempo of the game. The highlight of the night came in the 56th minute when Szoboszlai latched onto a slick, first-time pass from Salah, unleashing a trademark “thunderbolt” from the edge of the box that left Jason Steele with no chance.
Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, Salah was candid about the team’s reliance on their No. 8:
“I think a cup run depends on his performances. We rely on him so much. This season he is one of the best players in the world. I wish he can carry on like this.”
The “New Gerrard” Comparison
The interview took an interesting turn when Szoboszlai was asked about comparisons to club legend Steven Gerrard. Despite reaching double digits in goals for the season and being the “pillar of consistency” for the Reds, the 25-year-old remained humble.
“I am not playing a Steven Gerrard season, even though he was a legend for the club,” Szoboszlai insisted. “I try to do my own story and do my best every game.”
Evolution Under Arne Slot
While the 2025/26 campaign has seen collective setbacks for Liverpool, Szoboszlai has emerged as a versatile tactical weapon. This season alone, he has filled gaps at right-wing, holding midfield, and even defense when called upon.
Metric (vs. Brighton)
Pass Accuracy 98% (47/48)
Long Balls 4/4 (100%)
Goal Contributions 7 in last 8 games
Season Goal Tally 10.
A Bond Forged in Turbulence
The relationship between Salah and Szoboszlai has deepened significantly over the past year. Earlier in 2026, while Salah was away at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and navigating rumors of a fallout with manager Arne Slot, Szoboszlai revealed they were in “near-daily contact.” This mutual respect has translated into a lethal on-pitch partnership. Salah’s late penalty against Brighton, which sealed the 3-0 win, was arguably overshadowed by the chemistry shown during Szoboszlai’s strike—a testament to the “standard-setting” bond the two have developed in the dressing room.
