In the high-stakes world of the Premier League, where every team selection is scrutinized under a microscope, Jamie Carragher has never been one to shy away from a bold take. But his latest ultimatum to Arne Slot ahead of Liverpool’s crucial showdown with Arsenal is perhaps his most defiant yet.
The Liverpool legend and Sky Sports pundit has made it crystal clear: there is one specific player who simply must be on the team sheet if the Reds are to leave North London with three points. In fact, Carragher went as far as to joke-or perhaps half-joke-that he wouldn’t even tune in if Slot leaves this “big-game player” on the bench.
The Ultimate “Big Game” Necessity
While Arne Slot has impressed many with his tactical control since arriving at Anfield, Carragher believes that against a side as organized as Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, “control” isn’t enough. You need chaos, and you need players who have proven they can handle the white-hot intensity of a title-deciding atmosphere.
The player in question? Dominik Szoboszlai.
Despite some rotation in the midfield earlier this season, Carragher insists that the Hungarian captain is the engine that Liverpool cannot afford to leave in the
garage.
> “I won’t watch the match if Arne Slot doesn’t start him,” Carragher claimed.
“Against Arsenal, you aren’t just playing a football match; you’re playing a physical battle in that midfield. Szoboszlai is a big-game player. He has that ability to produce a moment of magic out of nothing when the game is tight.”
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Why Szoboszlai is the Key
Carragher pointed to several factors that make the midfielder indispensable for this specific fixture:
Tactical Flexibility: Under Slot, Szoboszlai has transitioned into a more disciplined role, but Carragher wants to see him “unleashed” against the Gunners.
The “Chaos” Factor: Arsenal’s defense, led by Saliba and Gabriel, thrives on predictable patterns. Szoboszlai’s long-range shooting and late runs into the box provide the unpredictability Liverpool needs.
Physical Presence: With Arsenal boasting a powerhouse midfield including Declan Rice, Liverpool needs Szoboszlai’s elite running stats and physical stature to compete in the middle of the park.
The Pressure on Arne Slot
Arne Slot finds himself in a fascinating position. Liverpool’s start to the 2025/26 campaign has been strong, but the shadow of the “heavy metal football” era still looms large. Critics, including Carragher, are wary of Slot being too pragmatic in matches where raw emotion and individual brilliance often tip the scales.
“Slot likes his transitions to be clean,” Carragher noted. “But at the Emirates, it’s going to be messy. You need the players who can win the ‘second balls’ and then have the
quality to hurt the opposition immediately.
That is Dominik Szoboszlai down to a tee.”
The “Must-Start” XI?
According to Carragher, the midfield battle will decide the title race. If Slot opts for a more conservative pairing-perhaps favoring a double pivot that excludes the Hungarian’s attacking flair—Carragher fears Liverpool will be “played around” by Arteta’s men.
| Requirement | Why Szoboszlai? |
| Offensive Threat | His 25-yard strikes force defenders to step out, creating space for Salah. |
| Defensive Workrate | One of the highest-rated pressers in the league this season. |
| Big Game Pedigree | Already scored the winner in the reverse fixture at Anfield. |
Verdict: Will Slot Listen?
Arne Slot has proven he is his own man, often ignoring the “punditry noise” to stick to his data-driven selections. However, with the gap at the top of the table tightening, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Carragher’s “ultimatum” reflects the anxiety of a fanbase that knows how slim the margins are. Whether Slot starts his “big-game player” or opts for a tactical surprise, one thing is certain: all eyes-including a very skeptical Jamie Carragher’s—will be on that team sheet an hour before kickoff.
Do you agree with Carra? Is Szoboszlai the first name on the team sheet for the Arsenal clash, or should Slot prioritize a more defensive setup?