Szoboszlai: It’s Too Early to Crown Arsenal Champions

Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai has warned Arsenal against celebrating the Premier League title too early ahead of Thursday night’s blockbuster clash at the Emirates Stadium.

The defending champions head to London sitting fourth on the table, 14 points behind leaders Arsenal, after a challenging title defence under Arne Slot.

Arsenal in Control, But Race Not Over

Another win for Mikel Arteta’s side, who have lost just two league matches all season, would strengthen their grip on top spot and fuel hopes of a first league title since the famous 2003/04 “Invincibles” campaign under Arsène Wenger.

However, Szoboszlai insists the race is far from settled, pointing to Manchester City and Aston Villa, who are just six points behind Arsenal.

“It’s a long way,” Szoboszlai said. “You don’t win the Premier League in January. Arsenal are a top team with unbelievable players, but they can’t forget about City and Villa.”

Liverpool Focused on Short-Term Targets

The Hungary captain admitted Liverpool’s hopes of retaining the title are slim due to the large points gap. He said the Reds must now take a game-by-game approach, with a top-four finish the realistic target.

“Because we are so many points behind, we can’t think long term. We have to perform every game and show we deserve to be in the top four,” he said.

Liverpool have already lost six league matches this season, more than their entire title-winning campaign, and Szoboszlai acknowledged the pressure that comes with poor form.

Handling Pressure at a Big Club

“Pressure is part of playing for one of the biggest clubs in the world,” he said. “Whether you are winning or losing, you have to handle it. This is why we are here.”

Despite earlier struggles, Liverpool travel to Arsenal on a nine-game unbeaten run in all competitions, signalling signs of recovery.

Salah Absence and Uncertain Future

Liverpool will be without Mohamed Salah, who is away on Africa Cup of Nations duty with Egypt. The forward’s Anfield future remains uncertain following a public fallout with Slot during last year’s losing run.

Szoboszlai admitted the situation was painful to watch but backed Salah to return stronger.

“He’s a professional and has the character to handle it,” he said. “Everyone hopes he comes back after AFCON and helps us again. I love playing with him and know what he can do.”

As Arsenal and Liverpool prepare to collide, Szoboszlai’s message is clear: the title race is still open, and the pressure is only just beginning.