Dominik Szoboszlai, sidelined for Liverpool’s last three matches after being forced off against Brentford, is officially back on the grass. This isn’t full team training yet, not by a long shot, but it’s the first real glimmer of hope for Andoni Iraola’s squad as they stare down a massive Sunday clash against defending champions Arsenal at Anfield. Sunday won’t be an easy afternoon, but this news shifts the calculus just a bit.
The Big Midfield Question: Szoboszlai’s Status
Szoboszlai’s absence has been felt. Missing three straight games, it’s clear the team needs his energy and playmaking. The hard fact is he’s not fully integrated back with the squad, but him being on the grass at all puts him right back in the conversation for Sunday. Iraola wasn’t overplaying it, which is probably smart, telling reporters, “I think Szoboszlai and Munoz have a chance but we still have two days. I think they have a chance, yes.” That quote tells you everything right there: there’s hope, but zero certainty. Munoz is in the same boat, potentially available, but nothing is guaranteed.
Anfield Showdown: Why Every Body Counts Against Arsenal
This isn’t just any game, folks. Arsenal are the defending champions, and they’re the kind of opponent that absolutely punishes any weak links, tired legs, or makeshift solutions. Liverpool just got through a draining Carabao Cup tie against Chelsea that went all the way to penalties. Yeah, they progressed, which matters, and Iraola smartly rotated some younger players in, protecting some senior guys. But that Chelsea game served its purpose. Now comes the real test, a far bigger examination. If Szoboszlai can make the squad, even just coming off the bench, it’s a massive boost for Iraola. His ball carrying, his control in midfield, his pure energy could genuinely decide everything in a game where those factors are paramount.
Right now, it’s all about those final fitness checks. Liverpool is pushing to turn a positive midweek cup result into something much, much more significant at Anfield on Sunday. Can they pull it off? All eyes are on the injury report right up until kickoff.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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