Liverpool’s recent international break revealed something intriguing about the squad: the club is stacked with players who already lead their national teams. And with several senior contracts winding down, it raises fresh questions about who could eventually take over the armband at Anfield.
Virgil van Dijk continues to marshal both Liverpool and the Netherlands, while Andy Robertson remains Scotland’s long-serving captain. Mohamed Salah also carries major influence for Egypt. But during this break, other names stepped into the spotlight.
Dominik Szoboszlai captained Hungary and was visibly emotional after their narrow loss to the Republic of Ireland. Conor Bradley led Northern Ireland at just 22 years old, and Ibrahima Konaté wore France’s armband during their trip to Azerbaijan.
With Robertson’s current contract ending at the close of the season — and Van Dijk and Salah’s deals set to expire in 2027 — Arne Slot may soon need to refresh Liverpool’s leadership group. And the next candidates might already be in the dressing room.
Szoboszlai’s Quiet Authority
After Liverpool’s win over Real Madrid, Szoboszlai was asked about becoming future captain material. Despite being one of the club’s standout performers this season, the Hungarian downplayed the idea.
He insisted Liverpool already has established leaders and that his focus remains on performing on the pitch. Still, at just 25 and already a national-team captain, his long-term potential is impossible to ignore.
Bradley Rising Fast
Conor Bradley’s progress has been one of Liverpool’s brighter storylines. Slot has repeatedly hinted at how important the full-back could become — provided he stays fit. Leading his country at such a young age only strengthens the argument that a significant role at Anfield lies ahead.
Learning From the Masters
Training daily alongside Van Dijk, Salah and Robertson — all captains for their nations — offers priceless experience for the next generation. Their professionalism, discipline, and standards have shaped Liverpool for years, and younger players like Szoboszlai and Bradley are clearly absorbing those lessons.
A New Era Approaches
With Trent Alexander-Arnold gone and several senior figures in their 30s, Liverpool’s future leadership core will gradually need to reshape itself. Szoboszlai looks poised to become one of the central figures in that transition, even if he isn’t saying it publicly yet. His influence, energy, and ability to lead by example echo the qualities that defined past Liverpool greats.
While this season has been turbulent, one thing is becoming clear: the Reds’ next captain may already be growing into the role right before our eyes.
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