Liverpool once again find themselves searching for a new vice-captain.
Following Andy Robertson’s departure to Tottenham Hotspur, the Reds have another leadership position to fill—the third time in just four seasons that the club has had to rethink its leadership group.
With Mohamed Salah and Ibrahima Konaté also leaving this summer, the pool of experienced candidates has become considerably smaller.
Andoni Iraola has already made his thinking clear.
“I always say, you don’t need to wear an armband to be a leader, to be a captain.”
It’s a sensible philosophy.
Leadership isn’t simply about wearing an armband—it’s about setting standards every day on the training pitch and during matches.
Even so, Liverpool still need someone capable of supporting Virgil van Dijk, and there are several strong contenders.
1. Dominik Szoboszlai – The Leading Candidate
If there is an obvious favourite, it has to be Dominik Szoboszlai.
The Hungary captain already understands the responsibility of leading both club and country.
He has become one of Liverpool’s most important players and repeatedly demonstrated his willingness to put the team first.
Whether playing centrally, deeper or in unfamiliar positions, Szoboszlai rarely complains.
Instead, he simply gets on with the job.
Iraola himself has already suggested that the midfielder is one of the players Liverpool will build around moving forward.
His recent contract extension only strengthens that argument.
If Liverpool are thinking long term, appointing Szoboszlai now could be the first step towards eventually succeeding Van Dijk as club captain.
Likelihood: 9/10
2. Alisson Becker – The Experienced Leader
Few players command more respect inside Liverpool than Alisson.
He has been one of the club’s leaders for years, constantly organising the defence and setting standards with his performances.
The only concern is availability.
Goalkeepers naturally miss fewer matches than outfield players, but Alisson has experienced several injury setbacks in recent seasons.
There is also ongoing speculation surrounding his long-term future.
If Liverpool believe he may leave when his contract expires, appointing him vice-captain may only delay another leadership transition.
Even so, in terms of pure leadership qualities, he is unquestionably among the strongest candidates.
Likelihood: 8/10
3. Joe Gomez – The Quiet Professional
Sometimes leadership comes without shouting.
That perfectly describes Joe Gomez.
Liverpool’s longest-serving player has earned enormous respect throughout the club through professionalism, resilience and loyalty.
He has overcome injuries, setbacks and fierce competition for places without ever causing problems.
He has also captained Liverpool previously when called upon.
If Iraola wants someone who understands exactly what Liverpool Football Club represents, Gomez deserves serious consideration.
His only disadvantage is uncertainty surrounding his long-term future.
Likelihood: 7/10
4. Alexis Mac Allister – A Growing Influence
Mac Allister may not be the first name supporters think of when discussing captains, but his influence continues to grow.
The Argentine has become one of Liverpool’s most reliable performers and is now among the senior figures in the dressing room.
His football intelligence, professionalism and calm personality make him a strong candidate.
He may not be the loudest voice in the squad, but effective leaders do not always need to be.
At 27, he is entering the prime years of his career and could become increasingly influential under Iraola.
Likelihood: 5/10
5. Cody Gakpo – The Dark Horse
Perhaps the surprise option is Cody Gakpo.
The Dutch international captained PSV Eindhoven before joining Liverpool and has quietly become one of the senior figures within the attacking unit.
Gakpo is respected, composed and team-oriented.
His calm personality could complement Van Dijk’s leadership style extremely well.
He may not be the favourite, but he certainly deserves to be part of Liverpool’s wider leadership group.
Likelihood: 5/10
My Choice
If it were my decision, I would hand the vice-captaincy to Dominik Szoboszlai.
He already leads his country.
He has committed his future to Liverpool.
He plays almost every week.
And perhaps most importantly, he represents the future of the football club.
Liverpool are entering a new era under Andoni Iraola.
Giving Szoboszlai greater responsibility now feels like the natural next step.
Whatever decision Iraola makes, Liverpool’s leadership group will be crucial this season.
Replacing players such as Robertson, Salah and Konaté is not only about ability.
It is also about replacing personalities.
Choosing the right vice-captain could prove just as important as any signing Liverpool make this summer.
Jamie (The Kopite View)
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