Red Bull Salzburg star Dominik Szoboszlai has revealed that playing in a European competition next season in not a necessity amid links with Milan and Arsenal.
Yesterday, Calciomercato.com reported that Szoboszlai is the Rossoneri’s main priority, with contacts between the parties continuing. However, the likes of Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal are also monitoring the 19-year-old’s situation.
Vito Angele then reported earlier today that the midfielder has given his full availability for a transfer to the San Siro in September and that Rangnick has been in contact with the player for the last few days, reaching an agreement in principle on personal terms.
At this point, Milan only need to let RB Salzburg know of their intention to pay the Szoboszlai’s release clause, which reportedly is valued at around €25m.
Szoboszlai spoke to Hungarian outlet Nemzeti Sport about a wide range of topics including his rise to stardom and what the future holds. We thanks Balázs Gulyás for his translations.
His form: “After the lockdown period I was able to show my real qualities. Before the lockdown I was struggling a bit, I was not totally satisfied with my performance in the January – February period.
“Shane Tusup (famous swimming trainer for Olympic athletes – Balázs) has also helped him a lot. During the lockdown period I worked a lot and tried to focus on my weaknesses (like heading) as well. The work has been paid off.
“When I was down I thought about my personal goals, it helped to maintain my motivation. Being footballer a mental game and I always try to left behind the negative thoughts. I work hard and train a lot.
“After the training I usually stay on the field to practice. I was criticised (it may refer to the comments from Hungary – Balázs) everyone has the right to do that. I has grown a lot. I am getting famous but I know that in the meantime I need to take more responsibility.
“Comparing to the previous season (2018-19) I feel that in the current one I have contributed more to the success of the team. I worked hard to achieve my goals. Besides the league we have also played in the Champions League, I played at Anfield against Liverpool which is a big achievement for a 19 year old Hungarian footballer.”
Preferred position: “It does not matter for me where I play it usually depends on the system.”
Playing in the Champions League with Salzburg: “Playing in CL is another dimension, everything is much quicker. I gained a lot experience through the Liverpool and Napoli games.
“Playing against teams like these means an extra motivation and requires much more effort from a mental point of view. I was a bit scared at Anfield. The rematch was better and we were more focused. I’d managed the situation (playing against Liverpool) better now.”
On his future: “Let’s see. Nevertheless, I do not stop training even though I must take a rest. I have one week for my family and then I start preparing for the next season individually.
“I would like to keep my form. Based on the current circumstances officially I am going to start preparations at Salzburg. The first training will be held on 27 July.
“I heard about the rumours, some of my friends have also called me whether they are true. I said: read through the articles and you will know if they are proper information.
“When deciding about the future the most important thing that I will take into consideration is playing continuously. Playing in the Europa League/Champions League in the next year is not a priority. Some personal aspects will be also taken into account.”
Esterházy Mátyás (agent): “There is no update, there are several offers. We have time, there is no need to rush. Seasons in some countries are not even finished. We are seeking the best solution for Dominik. Decision may be taken in the upcoming weeks.”
