Virgil van Dijk acknowledges who should be Liverpool’s captain once the Dutchman is no longer at the club
The centre-back sees in Dominik Szoboszlai a natural leader who could guide the team in the coming seasons.
In a season where results at Anfield have been uncharacteristically inconsistent, the question of who will lead the next generation is echoing louder than ever. While the current captain, Virgil van Dijk, usually keeps his cards close to his chest, he recently opened up about one of the most talked-about names in the dressing room: Dominik Szoboszlai.
His comments have added a new layer of analysis to the ongoing debate regarding the future of the "Red" locker room.
Leadership Beyond the Stat Sheet
The Dutch defender admitted that the Hungarian midfielder has displayed qualities that are impossible to ignore, especially during a campaign where the team has struggled for regularity. Van Dijk suggested that true personality is tested in difficult contexts, and Szoboszlai has consistently responded with a high-level competitive character.
- Intensity and Effort: Since arriving from RB Leipzig, Szoboszlai has been one of the most relentless players on the pitch, leading the team in pressing and physical output.
- The "Silent" Leader: Many within the club argue that his name belongs at the top of the captaincy shortlist not just because of his talent, but because of his work ethic.
Leading by Example vs. Managing the Group
When asked directly if he sees the Hungarian as his natural successor, Van Dijk remained prudent. He emphasized that the final decision rests with the manager and the coaching staff, but he didn't hold back his praise.
"Dominik already leads by example," Van Dijk noted. "That is the starting point for any captain: playing well, being consistent, and maintaining a winning mentality."
However, the veteran center-back also dropped a subtle hint about the areas where Szoboszlai still has room to grow. Van Dijk mentioned that "management and communication" are skills the 25-year-old will need to refine to become the club’s institutional reference point.
A Transition in Progress
The "Van Dijk Era" has been defined by trophies and legendary moments, but at this stage in 2026, the club is inevitably looking toward a medium-term transition. Szoboszlai represents a unique blend of youth and international pedigree, having already captained the Hungarian national team on numerous occasions.
The Strategic Priority: The 2028 Contract
Beyond the pitch, Liverpool is already working on the "Szoboszlai Project" in the offices. While his current deal runs until 2028, rumors suggest the club is looking to "shield" him with a contract extension. Securing his long-term future is seen as a strategic move to build the next great Liverpool side around him.
As rumors swirl regarding new offensive talents arriving from the Bundesliga, the internal conversation at Anfield has a clear protagonist. The debate is officially open: Is Dominik Szoboszlai the rightful heir to the armband? Van Dijk has spoken between the lines, and now the ball is in the coaching staff's court.
