In 2023, the term “elite mentality” is often used in football discussions, but Dominik Szoboszlai truly exemplifies it.

“I want to win everything,” Szoboszlai tells Hypebeast, outlining his ambitions with Liverpool: “Carabao Cup, FA Cup, Premier League, Europa League. Why not? We can achieve it – and we will strive for it.”

The new midfielder speaks after Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Everton in the Merseyside Derby, during Nike and the LFC Foundation’s ‘Game On’ event, which promotes youth sports participation in Liverpool.

“The program provides crucial access to sports for many young people in underserved areas of the Liverpool region,” explains Dan Burrows, Senior Director of Social & Community Impact at Nike EMEA, who is working alongside Szoboszlai. “We’re especially focused on creating inclusive and enjoyable spaces for girls to engage in football.”

As he inspires the next generation, Szoboszlai reflects on his rapid ascent to becoming one of the world’s top midfielders. “From the beginning, I wanted to be a professional footballer,” he says. “I had my goals, like every kid. But if you’d asked me where I wanted to play, I would have said a big club like Liverpool.”

His journey has been remarkable. Szoboszlai honed his skills in Hungary before receiving a top-notch education at RB Salzburg, where he played alongside talents like Erling Haaland, before moving to RB Leipzig. In Leipzig, he gained a reputation as one of the game’s hottest prospects, known for his exceptional technical skills, relentless energy, and powerful striking, which have become hallmarks of his play.

With Liverpool needing midfield reinforcements, Szoboszlai joined the club in the summer transfer window—a move he describes as a childhood dream, having always viewed Liverpool as “one of the greatest clubs in the world.”

Upon his arrival, Szoboszlai was the fittest of Liverpool’s summer signings, but he was disappointed not to top the club’s demanding lactate test after moving quickly from RB Leipzig, where Liverpool activated his £60.1 million release clause. “The transfer happened so fast that I came here without proper training,” he explains. “Next time, I’ll win it.”

His confidence and self-assurance quickly established him as a natural leader, leading to his appointment as captain of the Hungarian national team shortly after turning 22. Now 23, Szoboszlai is thriving as Liverpool’s new Number 8.

His strong character stems from a disciplined upbringing. As a youth player, Szoboszlai’s father sought to enhance his foot dexterity. Even at 6’1″, he wore smaller boots to limit his foot size to a seven, improving his dribbling and ball control.

“My dad was there every step of the way, helping me a lot,” Szoboszlai shares about his training in his hometown of Szekesfehervar. His father, Zsolt, a former professional footballer, coached him through his development. Szoboszlai admits it was challenging at times: “When I was 14, I’d think, ‘Why are you yelling at me?’ But now I understand.”

This unconventional approach clearly paid off. Szoboszlai has a collection of stunning goals and free-kicks for both club and country, recently winning Liverpool’s ‘Goal of the Month’ for September with a strike against Leicester in the Carabao Cup.

His remarkable work ethic and skill have made him an instant fan favorite at Liverpool. You can see his impact around Anfield on match days, with ‘Szoboszlai 8’ jerseys everywhere—some reports even suggest his shirt sales have surpassed those of ‘Salah 11’.