Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has reacted following criticism aimed at Dominik Szoboszlai, after the midfielder’s risky moment nearly turned the Reds’ FA Cup clash with Barnsley into a disaster.
The match appeared comfortable early on, with Liverpool racing into a 2–0 lead courtesy of goals from Szoboszlai himself and Jeremie Frimpong. However, things took an unexpected turn when the Hungarian international attempted a flashy backheel deep inside his own half.
The move backfired badly.
Szoboszlai failed to connect with the ball, allowing Adam Phillips to pounce and fire past Giorgi Mamardashvili from close range, giving Barnsley a lifeline.
Liverpool Recover After Moment of Madness
Despite the blunder, Liverpool avoided paying the ultimate price. Late goals from substitutes Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike restored control and sealed a 4–1 victory, booking the Reds a fourth-round showdown with Brighton.
Still, questions were raised about the performance — and especially about Szoboszlai’s decision-making.
Szoboszlai Holds His Hands Up
After the final whistle, the midfielder did not shy away from responsibility. Speaking to TNT Sports, he openly apologised:
> “I’m sorry to the team. It was an easy mistake and I made things harder for us.
Football happens — we accept it and move on. Every opponent deserves respect, and this shows why we need the whole squad ready.”
Barnsley Boss Not Impressed
Barnsley manager Conor Hourihane was far less forgiving. The former Aston Villa midfielder suggested that Szoboszlai’s choice of skill was unnecessary and hinted that it wouldn’t happen in a bigger fixture.
> “I was disappointed with how we conceded,” Hourihane said.
“I don’t think he tries that against Chelsea, Arsenal, or in a Champions League match.”
When asked directly if the action was disrespectful, Hourihane replied:
> “Possibly. I don’t believe he does that in a Premier League game.”
Arne Slot’s Measured Response
Those comments were later put to Arne Slot, who admitted he was initially puzzled by the question. While the Liverpool boss agreed that the situation should never have happened, he chose not to publicly criticise his player.
> “I don’t think you should attempt that in any match — not in a friendly, not in training,” Slot explained.
“It was a strange decision. I have my own view on it, but I prefer to discuss that privately with Dom.”
Slot also acknowledged that Liverpool were far from perfect on the day.
> “I was pleased with the goals we scored, but the game stayed too close for too long.
Once we conceded, it became difficult. One more bad moment and it could have been 2–2.”
A Warning Ahead of Brighton
While Liverpool advanced comfortably on paper, the incident served as a reminder that fine margins matter, especially with tougher opposition waiting in the next round.
Brighton won’t be as forgiving. 👀🔥
😎
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