The Argentine midfielder has been one of the standout figures in Liverpool's strong start to the season, as they lead both the Champions League and the Premier League after a summer in which Arne Slot succeeded Jurgen Klopp as head coach.
Alexis Mac Allister has emerged as one of the key figures behind Liverpool’s impressive start to the season, with the club currently sitting at the summit of both the Premier League and the Champions League group stage.
After a summer of change that saw Arne Slot replace Jurgen Klopp, questions lingered about how the team would adapt to life under the Dutchman’s leadership. However, the transition has appeared seamless, with Liverpool not only maintaining their competitive edge but also showcasing signs of evolution in their style of play.
In an extensive interview with AS, the 25-year-old Argentine midfielder shared his thoughts on the shift from Klopp’s long-established philosophy to Slot’s methods, highlighting how the new manager has carefully built upon the foundation left by the German rather than overhauling it. “We came from a long process with Jurgen Klopp, and the main ideas were already in place. Basically, Arne Slot didn’t come to change everything but to add his methodology to what we had already been working on,” said Mac Allister. “The biggest difference, or what we’ve added, has been patience when we have the ball. That’s the biggest change at the moment. Now we have more possession, which allows us to create more goal-scoring chances.”
This emphasis on possession-based football has been a subtle but notable evolution under Slot. Where Klopp’s gegenpressing relied on intense transitions and quick vertical play, Slot has encouraged more control and deliberate buildup without sacrificing the team’s attacking intent. Mac Allister explained how this approach has benefitted Liverpool’s game. “The team feels very comfortable and is doing very well, as we saw against Real Madrid in the Champions League and against Manchester City in the Premier League. Beating two of the best teams in the world, and doing so convincingly, gives us a lot of confidence and shows that we can compete against anyone.”
The victories over Real Madrid and Manchester City both achieved with commanding 2-0 scorelines highlight Liverpool’s adaptability and growing maturity under Slot’s guidance. Against Real Madrid, Liverpool controlled the tempo of the game, stifling their opponents while creating chances with fluid, measured attacks. Similarly, against Manchester City, Liverpool’s composure with the ball forced City to chase the game, a rare dynamic for Pep Guardiola’s side. For Mac Allister, these performances serve as benchmarks of Liverpool’s progress this season. “We knew we were going to play against two of the best teams in the world and against those who have dominated Europe in recent years. For us, it was a challenge to show that we can compete and win. We achieved that in the best way possible, and playing at Anfield helped us a bit because we had our people with us.”
Mac Allister’s influence in Liverpool’s midfield has been undeniable. Tasked with orchestrating play and maintaining control, the Argentine has seamlessly adapted to his deeper role. His technical ability, tactical intelligence, and composure under pressure have been instrumental in Liverpool’s ability to dictate games. Despite only being in his second season at Anfield, Mac Allister has quickly become a leader in the team, embodying the balance between defensive solidity and creative flair that Slot seeks in his midfielders.
Reflecting on the challenge ahead, Mac Allister was quick to turn his focus to Liverpool’s next test a crucial away fixture against Girona in the Champions League group stage. “I’m happy with both games and especially with both results, but this is football, and now we have to focus on the next match,” he said. The upcoming match, which will determine Liverpool’s position heading into the knockout rounds, highlights the relentless demands of competing on multiple fronts. Mac Allister’s mindset, however, reflects the professionalism and ambition driving this Liverpool side forward.
Since arriving at Liverpool, Mac Allister has been a picture of consistency. His ability to step up in big moments has not gone unnoticed, with his goal against Real Madrid in the previous Champions League fixture serving as a prime example of his impact. In 21 matches this season, the midfielder has already contributed two goals, but his influence extends far beyond the scoresheet. As one of the key architects of Liverpool’s resurgence, Mac Allister has earned widespread praise for his role in helping the team navigate this period of transition seamlessly.
Liverpool’s current form is a testament to their resilience and adaptability. While Jurgen Klopp’s departure marked the end of an era, Arne Slot’s steady hand has ensured the club remains on an upward trajectory. Mac Allister’s comments underscore the harmony within the squad and the growing belief that Liverpool can challenge for silverware on all fronts. With momentum on their side and a renewed sense of purpose, Liverpool’s journey this season is shaping up to be one of promise and ambition.
As the team prepares for the challenges ahead, Mac Allister’s leadership and contributions will remain vital. His ability to bridge the gap between Klopp’s legacy and Slot’s new ideas reflects not only his own maturity as a player but also Liverpool’s determination to write the next chapter in their storied history. The road ahead is long, but with players like Mac Allister at the heart of their resurgence, Liverpool’s dreams of domestic and European glory feel closer than ever.
