The Kopite View

There is more to being a Liverpool player than simply pulling on the shirt, walking out at Anfield and competing for three points.

It means understanding the history, the people, the sacrifices and the incredible achievements that have made this football club what it is today.

And Virgil van Dijk clearly understands that responsibility.

According to Paul Joyce, Liverpool’s captain spoke to Andoni Iraola about taking the first-team squad to the LFC Museum, with the idea being to help a younger group of players understand the history and traditions of the club they represent.

I absolutely love this initiative, and it tells you plenty about Van Dijk’s leadership.

Understanding the history behind the badge

Liverpool’s squad has undergone considerable changes in recent seasons. There are plenty of younger players and new arrivals who haven’t necessarily grown up understanding what this football club means to its supporters.

A visit to the museum was an opportunity to change that.

The players were taken through Liverpool’s story, beginning with the club’s formation in 1892 and continuing through the domestic and European successes that have made the Reds one of the biggest clubs in world football.

But it wasn’t simply a celebration of trophies and famous victories.

The guides also covered the tragedies of Heysel and Hillsborough, ensuring the players understood the painful parts of the club’s history as well as the moments of glory.

That is important.

Liverpool’s identity has been shaped by much more than the trophies in the cabinet. It has been shaped by generations of supporters, the city, its community and the people who have stood by the club through the very best and worst of times.

You cannot fully understand Liverpool without understanding all of that.

Van Dijk is leading by example

I have spoken plenty about the importance of having experienced leaders in this Liverpool squad, and this is another reason why Van Dijk remains such an important figure.

His job isn’t just to organise the defence, win headers and wear the captain’s armband.

He has a responsibility to help the younger players understand the standards expected at Liverpool and what it means to represent the club.

Organising this visit shows that he takes that responsibility seriously.

It also sends a message to the new arrivals that they are joining something much bigger than an ordinary football team.

Liverpool has a unique identity, and players need to appreciate that if they are going to build a genuine connection with the supporters.

The LFC Foundation visit was just as important

The squad also heard from the LFC Foundation about its work in the local community and beyond.

That was another valuable part of the day.

Liverpool is not just about what happens on the pitch. The club has an important relationship with its supporters and the wider community, and the Foundation plays a significant role in tackling social inequalities and supporting people who need help.

For players arriving from different countries and backgrounds, understanding that connection is essential.

They need to appreciate why the club means so much to people who have supported Liverpool for decades, often through generations of their families.

The players also had the opportunity to take a group photograph on the Kop – a special setting that few people outside the club get to experience in that way.

A positive step under Andoni Iraola

I also think this reflects well on Iraola.

With so many changes to the playing squad, making sure everyone understands the club’s culture and expectations is important.

You can have all the tactical meetings and training sessions in the world, but building a team also requires a shared understanding of what you are representing.

Iraola has spoken about developing this Liverpool side, and initiatives like this can help create a stronger connection between the players and the club.

We want to see commitment, hard work and players fighting for the badge. Understanding the history behind it can only help.

My verdict

I love seeing Van Dijk take this kind of initiative.

He is approaching the latter stages of his career, but his influence at Liverpool should not be measured purely by how many more seasons he has left as a player.

He can still help shape the next generation, and this is exactly the sort of leadership I want to see from our captain.

Liverpool’s history belongs to all of us, but the players have a responsibility to respect it and carry it forward.

Hopefully, the younger members of this squad came away from the visit with a much greater understanding of what it means to represent Liverpool Football Club.

Because wearing the shirt is one thing.

Understanding what it stands for is something else entirely.

By Jamie
(The Kopite View)

I don’t understand why officials from Greater Manchester continue to be appointed to Liverpool matches, and when it comes to a game against Manchester City, I find it particularly difficult to understand the thinking behind it.

This isn’t about accusing an individual referee of being biased or suggesting that somebody cannot do their job professionally because of where they come from.

It is about common sense, public confidence and whether Pro Ref understands how these appointments look from the outside.

Gareth Roberts has raised exactly this issue, and I certainly don’t think he is alone in questioning the decision-making.

Why appoint a Greater Manchester referee for Liverpool against City?

The appointment of Chris Kavanagh for Liverpool’s meeting with Manchester City at Anfield raised plenty of eyebrows.

Kavanagh comes from Ashton-under-Lyne in Greater Manchester. That is a geographical fact, not an accusation against the referee.

But surely somebody at Pro Ref must understand why supporters would question the appointment?

Liverpool and Manchester City have been involved in some enormous battles over the years. There is plenty of history, plenty of rivalry and, given the importance of recent meetings, often very little separating the teams.

These matches are frequently decided by fine margins. A controversial penalty, a red card or a disallowed goal can have a massive impact.

Why introduce an unnecessary talking point before the game has even started?

Pro Ref can insist that its officials are impartial, and I have no reason to claim that Kavanagh cannot referee professionally. But impartiality isn’t just about what happens on the pitch. It is also about maintaining the confidence of supporters and clubs.

That is where I think the organisation is getting it wrong.

Liverpool supporters have reasons to question refereeing standards

This issue doesn’t exist in isolation.

Liverpool supporters have a long memory when it comes to controversial officiating decisions.

We haven’t forgotten the Luis Díaz goal against Tottenham that was incorrectly ruled out for offside, or the controversy surrounding the disallowed Virgil van Dijk equaliser against Manchester City.

More recently, there have been further debates about refereeing decisions involving Liverpool, including the controversial dismissal of Ryan Gravenberch against City.

None of those incidents proves that an official is deliberately making decisions against Liverpool. But when controversial decisions keep becoming major talking points, supporters naturally want greater transparency and accountability.

And that is precisely why appointments need to be considered carefully.

Pro Ref needs to understand what supporters see

The organisation now operates under the name Professional Game Referees, or Pro Ref, and says its aim is to improve officiating standards and ensure the game has access to the best available officials.

That sounds good in theory.

But surely part of that responsibility is recognising the importance of public perception?

If an official comes from Greater Manchester, why put them in charge of a Liverpool versus Manchester City fixture when there are other qualified referees available?

It doesn’t mean that official would be biased. It simply means the appointment creates questions that could easily have been avoided.

And it isn’t just Liverpool supporters who should be concerned. Every club deserves to feel that the officials appointed to its biggest matches have been selected with independence and confidence in mind.

This is about protecting the credibility of the game

I don’t expect referees to get every decision right. Football is played at incredible speed, and mistakes will happen.

What I do expect is an organisation that learns from those mistakes, explains its decisions and does everything possible to protect confidence in the game.

Pro Ref cannot simply dismiss every concern by saying officials are professionals and must be trusted.

Trust has to be earned.

For me, appointing officials from Greater Manchester to Liverpool matches, especially against Manchester City, is an unnecessary risk to that trust.

There are plenty of referees available. Why create a controversy before a ball has even been kicked?

I am not suggesting that every official from Greater Manchester should be banned from refereeing Liverpool. That would be ridiculous. But for certain fixtures, particularly those involving Manchester City, a little more thought about the optics would go a long way.

Pro Ref needs to start thinking about how these appointments look, not just whether they can defend them on paper.

By Jamie
(The Kopite View)

Liverpool supporters have another reason to feel optimistic about Virgil van Dijk’s future, with fresh reports suggesting that Andoni Iraola is keen to keep his captain at Anfield beyond the end of the season.

According to Graeme Bailey of TEAMtalk, there is every chance the 35-year-old will be offered at least another 12 months on his contract.

Bailey said:

“From what I’m hearing, Andoni Iraola really wants to keep him around… I’m told there’s every chance he gets another 12 months at least.”

That is certainly encouraging news, and it is difficult to disagree with the manager if that is his position.

Van Dijk is still hugely important to Liverpool

There will always be questions about offering another contract to a player approaching the latter stages of his career, particularly when he is already one of the club’s highest earners.

But Liverpool need to look beyond his age.

Van Dijk remains an important figure in this defence. He has continued to perform at a high level, has been available consistently and, just as importantly, brings leadership and organisation that cannot easily be replaced.

He is also helping the next generation.

Jeremy Jacquet has made an encouraging start to life at Liverpool, and having someone like Van Dijk alongside him is an enormous advantage. The youngster can learn from one of the best defenders of his generation, not just in matches but every day on the training ground.

Giovanni Leoni can benefit from that experience too as he continues his development.

Bailey specifically highlighted Van Dijk’s influence, describing him as being like a coach on the pitch. That is probably one of the best ways to explain why his value to Liverpool goes beyond what he produces during the 90 minutes.

Another 12 months would make sense

I don’t believe offering Van Dijk another year should prevent Liverpool from planning for the future.

The club still need to identify and develop a long-term successor. That process should already be underway, regardless of whether the captain stays.

In fact, keeping Van Dijk for another season could make that transition considerably easier. Liverpool would have the opportunity to introduce another centre-back gradually rather than expecting somebody to arrive and immediately take responsibility for leading the defence.

It would also give Jacquet and Leoni more time to develop without being placed under unnecessary pressure.

A short-term extension feels like a sensible compromise. Liverpool retain their experienced captain, while the club continues preparing for the next chapter.

There may also be discussions around the financial side of any agreement, given Van Dijk’s reported salary. But if both parties want to find a solution, I would hope that can be worked out.

Liverpool must not underestimate what they would lose

We have seen several experienced players leave Liverpool in recent seasons, and replacing their influence is never as straightforward as simply signing another footballer.

Van Dijk is the captain, a leader and one of the most recognisable figures in the dressing room. His standards matter, particularly in a squad that is still developing under Iraola.

I also think it sends out a positive message to the younger defenders that Liverpool value experience and are prepared to keep players who continue to perform.

Of course, this is not confirmation that a new contract has been agreed. Bailey is reporting that another 12 months is a realistic possibility, with Liverpool’s position expected to become clearer as discussions develop.

But my view is simple: if Van Dijk continues performing at this level, give him another year.

He has earned that opportunity, and Liverpool would be foolish to underestimate the importance of keeping their captain around while the next generation develops.

By Jamie
(The Kopite View)

There are plenty of arguments about which English club is the biggest, which has the greatest history and which has achieved the most in European football.

But one statistic should make Liverpool supporters smile.

According to the figures circulating, Liverpool have scored more goals in European competition than any other English club, sitting comfortably at the top of the table with 864.

Manchester United are second with 797, leaving a gap of 67 goals between the two historic rivals.

Here is how the English clubs compare:

|Club             |European goals|

Liverpool 864

Manchester United|797          

Arsenal          679          

Chelsea          591          

Tottenham        565          
Manchester City  439          

Newcastle United 256          

Leeds United     247          
Aston Villa      221          
West Ham United  155          

Liverpool’s European history speaks for itself

Liverpool’s relationship with European football is something special.

From Bill Shankly’s early European adventures to Bob Paisley’s incredible success, the club have built a reputation that stretches across generations.

The European Cup victories of 1977, 1978, 1981 and 1984 established Liverpool as a major force on the continent.

Then came the unforgettable modern triumphs, particularly Istanbul in 2005 and Madrid in 2019.

There have also been countless memorable European nights at Anfield, from the 4-0 Barcelona comeback to the victories over Manchester City, Roma and Villarreal.

Liverpool supporters know exactly what European football means to this club.

Manchester United are chasing, but Liverpool lead the way

United’s 797 goals are certainly impressive, but Liverpool’s advantage is another reminder of the Reds’ outstanding European pedigree.

Arsenal are third on 679, followed by Chelsea on 591 and Tottenham on 565.

Manchester City, despite their incredible rise over the past decade, have 439 goals in the figures supplied.

That is a sizeable difference between City and Liverpool, although their European histories have developed across very different periods.

It is also worth remembering that the number of matches played in European competitions has increased significantly over the years, so these totals reflect both success and longevity.

European nights are part of Liverpool’s identity

For me, this is what makes Liverpool such a special football club.

Winning trophies matters, but so does the history, the atmosphere and the memories created along the way.

European nights at Anfield have produced some of the greatest moments in football history. The Kop singing You’ll Never Walk Alone under the lights is something that supporters of other clubs can appreciate, even if they would rather not admit it.

Liverpool have always belonged among Europe’s elite.

864 goals, 67 more than Manchester United. Another statistic Liverpool supporters can be proud of – and another reminder that this club’s European history is second to none among English sides.

By Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool are continuing to look towards Brazil for emerging talent, with reports claiming they have made a formal enquiry to Palmeiras about 19-year-old attacking midfielder Erick Belé.

According to Sport Witness, Liverpool have contacted the Brazilian club to establish what it would take to bring the youngster to Anfield.

No official bid has been submitted, but Palmeiras are reportedly willing to open negotiations at around €30 million (£25 million).

And there is competition for his signature, with Paris Saint-Germain also making contact.

This is certainly one worth keeping an eye on.

Who is Erick Belé?

Belé is a highly regarded young attacking midfielder who has been progressing through Palmeiras’ academy system.

He has already started making appearances for the senior side, registering seven first-team appearances and scoring once.

He has also been involved with Brazil’s Under-20 team, where his performances have attracted attention from clubs in Europe.

His recent international form has been particularly encouraging. During a training camp in Spain, he reportedly registered three assists in three matches against Denmark, the United States and Mexico.

For a 19-year-old still trying to establish himself in senior football, those are encouraging signs.

Liverpool have clearly been doing their homework.

Palmeiras want £25m despite new contract

One of the more interesting aspects of this story is that Palmeiras have recently secured Belé’s future with a new contract running until October 2031.

You would expect that to put the Brazilian club in a strong negotiating position.

However, Sport Witness reports that Palmeiras are prepared to start discussions at around €30m (£25m).

That is a significant investment in a teenager who has made only a handful of senior appearances, but Liverpool are clearly looking at his potential rather than simply what he can offer immediately.

PSG are also interested, so Liverpool may have competition if they decide to take things further.

Importantly, there is no indication that a transfer is close. Liverpool have made an enquiry, not a formal offer.

Is this the sort of signing Liverpool should be making?

I have no problem with Liverpool targeting exciting young players from South America.

The club have enjoyed enormous success bringing talented players from that part of the world to Anfield, with the likes of Luis Suárez, Philippe Coutinho, Roberto Firmino, Fabinho and Alisson all making a major impact.

Not every youngster will develop into a superstar, of course, but identifying players before their value increases is an important part of building a successful squad.

Belé would presumably be viewed as a longer-term investment rather than somebody expected to walk straight into Iraola’s starting eleven.

However, I would still like Liverpool to prioritise the immediate problems in the senior squad.

The midfield needs attention, particularly the defensive balance and ability to progress the ball, while there are also questions over the left-back position.

Spending £25m on potential is one thing, but it must not come at the expense of strengthening positions where the team clearly needs experienced quality.

Liverpool must decide whether to make their move

The fact that PSG are also interested makes this a little more intriguing.

Liverpool have made their initial move by contacting Palmeiras, but the next step is deciding whether Belé is somebody they genuinely want to invest in.

At 19, he has plenty of development ahead of him, and there is no guarantee that he will become the player Liverpool hope he can be.

But if the scouting department believe he has the technical ability, creativity and potential to develop into a top-level attacking midfielder, £25m could prove to be a worthwhile investment.

I would certainly be interested to see how this one develops.

A formal enquiry is encouraging, but Liverpool need to be sensible with their money. Belé could be an exciting addition for the future, provided the club don’t lose sight of the positions that need strengthening right now.

By Jamie (The Kopite View)

Football has always been about money, but some clubs seem to have discovered a rather different way of generating it.

Figures comparing revenue growth among Europe’s biggest clubs make for interesting reading, particularly when you look at the numbers following Qatar’s takeover of Paris Saint-Germain.

The reported increases are staggering:

● Paris Saint-Germain: +301%

● Manchester City: +86%

● Liverpool: +18%

● Manchester United: +15%

● Real Madrid: +8%

Look at that difference. PSG’s reported growth is in a completely different league, even compared with Manchester City.

And it raises an obvious question: how exactly do some clubs manage to attract such extraordinary commercial opportunities?

PSG’s commercial transformation is remarkable

When Qatar Sports Investments took control of PSG in 2011, the club was nowhere near the financial powerhouse it has become.

The transformation has been enormous.

PSG have attracted major international brands, expanded their global profile and turned themselves into one of the most commercially powerful names in football.

Their relationship with Jordan Brand is a particularly good example of how the club has moved beyond traditional football sponsorship and into fashion and lifestyle marketing.

The financial figures are now extraordinary. PSG reported record revenue of €837 million for the 2024/25 season, including €367 million from commercial activities.

That is some business operation.

Of course, PSG have also enjoyed huge success on the pitch, winning their first Champions League in 2025, which has helped drive their worldwide appeal.

But the scale of their commercial growth is still remarkable.

Manchester City have followed a similar path

Manchester City’s reported 86% growth is another huge increase.

Since the Abu Dhabi takeover in 2008, City have transformed themselves from a club that had not won a league title for decades into one of the dominant forces in European football.

Their commercial partnerships, global profile and success on the pitch have helped them build a financial operation capable of competing with the biggest clubs in the world.

But this is where football’s financial landscape becomes increasingly difficult to ignore.

Clubs with enormously wealthy state-linked ownership have access to commercial opportunities and financial backing that traditional clubs cannot simply replicate.

It is one thing to build a successful football team. It is another to have the financial muscle to transform an entire global brand.

Liverpool’s growth is impressive, but the gap is frustrating

Liverpool’s reported 18% growth is respectable, and the club have certainly built an enormous global following without the same ownership model as PSG or Manchester City.

In fact, Deloitte’s latest Football Money League figures show Liverpool generated €836 million in revenue during 2024/25, making them the highest revenue-generating English club for the first time.

That is a significant achievement.

However, I still believe Liverpool need to be more ambitious commercially.

We are one of the biggest football clubs in the world, with a massive international fanbase, an iconic stadium and a history that most clubs can only dream about.

There is no reason why Liverpool shouldn’t be competing at the very top financially.

The club have made progress, but supporters want to see that financial strength reflected in the squad as well. We cannot keep watching rivals spend heavily while Liverpool are expected to find clever solutions in the transfer market.

Funny how the sponsorship money keeps appearing!

The figures are certainly food for thought.

I’m not suggesting every sponsorship deal involving PSG or Manchester City is automatically questionable. Clubs are entitled to attract commercial partners and grow their businesses.

But when you see the scale of the increases, it is fair to ask questions about the wider financial landscape of modern football.

Traditional clubs have spent generations building their reputations, supporter bases and commercial appeal. Yet state-backed ownership has changed the game, giving certain clubs extraordinary resources to accelerate that process.

And that’s the part I find difficult to ignore.

Liverpool must continue to grow commercially, but football needs a financial system where success is not simply determined by who has the wealthiest backers or the most lucrative sponsorship connections.

By Jamie (The Kopite View)

Dominik Szoboszlai has reported for international duty with Hungary despite carrying a knee problem, and I can understand why Andoni Iraola will be concerned.

Liverpool’s midfielder was forced off during Sunday’s 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace after struggling with his knee. He had already played part of the second half with his knee strapped before being replaced by Trey Nyoni in the 69th minute.

The worry is that Szoboszlai has only recently returned from an injury setback, and Liverpool really cannot afford to lose another important player.

Iraola made his feelings perfectly clear

The Liverpool manager was clearly hoping his midfielder would remain at the club during the international break.

Iraola said:

“I know what I want.”

He then acknowledged the player’s commitment to Hungary, adding:

“But I also have to understand [the desire to play for] the national teams, and I’m sure that Dom, if he is fine, he will want to go. But I’m not sure if it’s gonna be fine.

“I know that he will do everything to go because he loves to play with the national team. But he was not 100 percent now when he finished the game.”

You can hardly blame Szoboszlai for wanting to represent his country. He is Hungary’s captain, clearly takes enormous pride in playing for them and will want to be involved in their important Nations League fixtures.

However, there has to be a sensible decision about his fitness.

Liverpool have already been through this once

What makes the situation particularly frustrating is that we have been here before.

During the previous international break, Szoboszlai returned from Hungary with a muscular problem. He subsequently suffered another setback against Brentford and missed several Liverpool matches.

Iraola clearly remembers that experience.

He has already warned that the last thing Liverpool need is to lose more important players during international duty. After the problems caused by the previous break, his concern is completely understandable.

Szoboszlai is an important player for Liverpool. Whatever I think about his best position and how the midfield should be structured, there is no questioning his energy, work rate and ability to influence matches.

Losing him again would be another headache for Iraola.

Hungary must be careful with their captain

Hungary have important matches coming up, including their meeting with Northern Ireland, so it is understandable that they want their captain available.

But is it worth risking a player who has already had injury problems this season?

The Hungarian Football Federation confirmed that Szoboszlai was undergoing medical checks following his arrival. Reporting for international duty does not automatically mean he will be fit enough to play, and that distinction is important.

Liverpool and Hungary need to make sure they have a clear understanding of the problem before any decision is made.

There is no point rushing him back for international football only to make the injury worse and leave Liverpool without him for another spell.

Liverpool need their players fit for Manchester United

Liverpool’s next match after the international break is the visit of Manchester United to Anfield on November 22.

That is a massive fixture, and Iraola will want as many of his key players available as possible.

My view is simple: if Szoboszlai is not fully fit, he should not play. International football is important, but protecting the player’s long-term fitness has to come first.

I respect his commitment to Hungary, and nobody should question his desire to represent his country. However, Liverpool are also the club paying his wages and depending on him throughout a demanding season.

Iraola has made his position clear. Now we need to hope the medical assessments produce some positive news.

The last thing Liverpool need is another international break followed by another Szoboszlai injury. Let’s get him properly fit rather than risk losing him all over again.

By Jamie -(The Kopite View)

Alexander Isak is starting to show Liverpool supporters exactly why the club were prepared to spend so much money bringing him to Anfield.

The Swedish striker has now scored seven Premier League goals in nine appearances this season, making him Liverpool’s leading scorer and one of the most productive forwards in the division.

His latest goal came in Sunday’s 3-1 victory away to Crystal Palace, when he calmly finished after Florian Wirtz’s excellent work to put the result beyond doubt.

And what makes Isak’s scoring record particularly impressive is how consistently he has been finding the net against different opposition.

Seven goals, six different opponents

Isak’s Premier League goals have come against:

● ⚽ Nottingham Forest

● ⚽⚽ Ipswich Town

● ⚽ Bournemouth

● ⚽ Brentford

● ⚽ Brighton

● ⚽ Crystal Palace

He has scored in six different league matches, including a brace against Ipswich. That is exactly the sort of consistency Liverpool need from their main striker.

There was a period when questions were being asked about Isak, particularly when Liverpool were struggling to create enough chances and he was looking isolated up front.

But the goals are arriving, and his importance to this team is becoming increasingly obvious.

Liverpool need to give him the service he deserves

I’ve said previously that Liverpool’s biggest attacking problem has often been the lack of quality service from midfield.

Isak is a striker who thrives when the ball is played into the right areas. He wants to attack space, run in behind defenders and get himself into positions where he can finish.

We saw that again against Palace. His movement helped create opportunities for others, before Wirtz returned the favour with the assist for his goal.

That understanding between the two could become hugely important for Liverpool as the season progresses.

There is still plenty of room for improvement in Liverpool’s overall attacking play, but having a striker who can consistently put the ball in the net gives the team a massive advantage.

Isak can be the difference for Iraola

Liverpool have not had the smoothest start to the Premier League campaign, and Andoni Iraola still has plenty of work to do to get this team playing consistently.

But there are positives.

Isak is delivering goals, Wirtz finally opened his Premier League account against Palace, and the attacking potential is there if Liverpool can find the right balance in midfield.

Seven goals in nine league appearances is an excellent return. At 27, Isak should be entering the prime years of his career, and Liverpool need to build an attack that gets the very best out of him.

I don’t think we’ve seen anything like his full potential in a Liverpool shirt yet.

If the service improves and the understanding with Wirtz and the other forwards continues to develop, there is every reason to believe Isak can finish the season with a very impressive goal tally.

Liverpool paid big money for Alexander Isak because they wanted a striker who could deliver at the highest level. Seven goals in nine Premier League games suggests they are beginning to see exactly what they invested in.

By Jamie – (The Kopite View)

Alexis Mac Allister has given Liverpool supporters another reason to believe his future could still be at Anfield, despite the uncertainty surrounding his contract.

The Argentine midfielder has made it clear that he wants to continue his career at Liverpool, but he also understands that his performances will play a major part in convincing the club to reconsider its position.

Speaking to Spanish publication AS, Mac Allister said:

“There’s still time. The fans don’t need to worry. It will depend on how I perform during these years. I’m going to give 100% and, hopefully, maybe they (the board) will change their minds.”

Those comments are particularly interesting because they show that, despite his disappointment at not being offered improved terms, he hasn’t given up hope of extending his stay.

And I certainly hope Liverpool’s board are listening.

Mac Allister remembers the good times at Anfield

The midfielder also reflected on his time at Liverpool, highlighting the Premier League title-winning campaign and his first season under Jürgen Klopp.

He said:

“I had some very good years at Liverpool. I remember the year we won the Premier League, which was a great year.

“Also, the first year with Jürgen, playing perhaps in a new position I wasn’t used to. Overall, apart from last year, they were very good years.”

I think that last comment is particularly revealing.

Mac Allister clearly recognises that last season was disappointing, both individually and collectively. But he hasn’t allowed one difficult campaign to define his Liverpool career.

He has already been an important part of a Premier League title-winning team and has shown what he can contribute when playing at his best.

His recent performances have also been encouraging, including his opening goal in the 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace.

He is looking more influential again, and that is exactly what Liverpool need.

Why I believe Liverpool should reconsider

I’ve previously made it clear that I don’t want to see Mac Allister leave Anfield.

There has been reported interest from Real Madrid and other European clubs, but the most important point is that the player himself has shown no desire to force an exit.

He has already admitted that he had opportunities to leave during the summer but decided to stay because he believes Liverpool is the right club for him.

That commitment should count for something.

At 27, Mac Allister should still have some of his best football ahead of him. He has the technical ability, intelligence and experience to remain an important part of Iraola’s midfield.

Liverpool have enough rebuilding to do without creating another major problem by allowing an established international midfielder to drift towards the exit.

Iraola could get even more out of him

One of the things I would like to see under Iraola is a midfield built around the right balance of players.

Mac Allister is technically gifted, reads the game intelligently and can progress possession. But he needs the right players around him.

I’ve argued that Liverpool need a more defensively accomplished midfielder who can win possession, cover ground and allow the more creative players to operate further forward.

That could help Mac Allister become even more influential.

He shouldn’t be expected to do everything himself, and I don’t believe Liverpool should be considering his departure when there is still so much potential to get out of him.

The manager has an opportunity to build a midfield that brings out the best in him.

The ball is in Liverpool’s court

Mac Allister’s current contract runs until 2028, so Liverpool aren’t facing an immediate contract expiry.

However, the club should not become complacent.

The Argentine has previously admitted feeling disappointed that Liverpool were not in a position to offer him a new deal, particularly after seeing Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai commit their futures to the club.

He has responded by continuing to work hard and perform.

His latest comments suggest he is prepared to let his football do the talking, but that doesn’t mean Liverpool should leave the situation unresolved indefinitely.

If he maintains his current level, I believe the club should seriously reconsider offering him an extension.

My verdict: Don’t let Mac Allister become another expensive replacement job

I like Mac Allister’s attitude.

He isn’t demanding a new contract, threatening to leave or making excuses. He is saying he will give everything for Liverpool and hopes his performances convince the board to change their minds.

That is the sort of commitment supporters want to see.

I also think Liverpool need to look beyond one disappointing season when assessing a player’s value to the squad.

Mac Allister has helped Liverpool win major trophies, understands the demands of the club and clearly enjoys playing at Anfield.

My message to the Liverpool board would be simple: don’t wait until another club makes a serious move before recognising what you have.

I want Iraola to build his midfield, and I believe Alexis Mac Allister should be part of that project.

He has given Liverpool plenty already. Hopefully, there are several more successful years ahead of him in a red shirt.

By Jamie
(The Kopite View)

Real Madrid are reportedly keeping a close eye on Alexis Mac Allister, with the Spanish giants viewing the Liverpool midfielder as a potential priority target.

It is hardly surprising that one of Europe’s biggest clubs would be interested in signing the Argentine international. When Mac Allister is playing at his best, he has the technical ability, intelligence and composure to control matches at the highest level.

But there is an important detail Liverpool supporters should take encouragement from: Mac Allister is not pushing for an Anfield exit.

Instead, he is reportedly focused on continuing his career at Liverpool and earning a new contract through his performances on the pitch.

That is exactly what I want to hear.

However, the club needs to make sure it doesn’t leave things too late.

Real Madrid interest is a warning Liverpool should take seriously

Real Madrid have been linked with Mac Allister for some time, and their interest is understandable.

He is a World Cup winner, a Premier League champion and a midfielder capable of operating in several roles.

He can dictate the tempo, find forward passes, win possession and contribute in the attacking areas.

At 27, he should still have some of his best years ahead of him.

Madrid are always looking for players who can improve their midfield, and Mac Allister certainly has the qualities to fit into a team competing for the biggest trophies.

But Liverpool should not be helping them by allowing his contract situation to become increasingly complicated.

Mac Allister deserves a new contract

There is an uncomfortable background to this situation.

Mac Allister admitted earlier this season that he was very disappointed Liverpool had not offered him a new contract, particularly after Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai were handed improved long-term deals.

He also revealed that he had opportunities to leave during the summer but chose to stay because he believes Liverpool is the right club for him.

He has been honest about wanting to remain at Anfield, but he also understands that he needs to perform to convince the club to offer him fresh terms.

His current contract runs until 2028, so Liverpool are not facing an immediate expiry. However, next summer will be an important point in deciding his future.

I don’t believe the club should wait until the situation becomes urgent.

Mac Allister has already demonstrated his quality and importance to Liverpool. If he continues performing at the level expected of him, I would be looking to reward him with a new deal.

Iraola needs Mac Allister in his midfield

One of the biggest challenges facing Andoni Iraola is getting the balance right in Liverpool’s midfield.

I’ve said repeatedly that this department needs attention, particularly when it comes to defensive protection and the ability to move the ball forward quickly.

But that doesn’t mean Liverpool should be looking to replace Mac Allister.

I actually think he could be even more effective with the right midfield partner alongside him.

He has the intelligence to read the game, the technical quality to dictate possession and the ability to play passes that break opposition lines.

Liverpool need more players with those qualities, not fewer.

Iraola should be building a midfield around the strengths of players like Mac Allister while identifying the right additions to improve the overall balance.

Losing him would create another major rebuilding job.

Liverpool cannot afford another contract situation dragging on

The worrying thing is that Liverpool have already had enough uncertainty surrounding the futures of important players.

Mac Allister has publicly expressed disappointment at the lack of a new offer, while other clubs are clearly monitoring the situation.

There is no suggestion that Real Madrid have agreed a deal or that Liverpool are preparing to sell him. Interest is not the same as a transfer agreement.

But the longer the situation remains unresolved, the more opportunity there is for speculation to grow.

The arrival of sporting director Julian Ward and changes behind the scenes could potentially influence future contract decisions, but Liverpool need to make their intentions clear.

If they see Mac Allister as part of Iraola’s long-term plans, they should act accordingly.

My verdict: Keep Mac Allister at all costs within reason

I don’t want to see Liverpool lose Alexis Mac Allister.

He is an intelligent footballer who brings quality, experience and composure to the midfield. He is also at an age where Liverpool should be getting the best years of his career.

Real Madrid can monitor him all they want, but Liverpool should be doing everything reasonable to convince him that his future belongs at Anfield.

The midfielder has reportedly made it clear that he wants to stay and earn a new deal through his performances.

Now the club needs to respond.

I understand that Liverpool have to make sensible financial decisions, and nobody should be handed a contract simply because of their reputation. But Mac Allister has earned serious consideration.

I would much rather see Liverpool strengthen the midfield around Mac Allister than allow one of Europe’s biggest clubs to take him away.

He should be part of Iraola’s plans for the future, not another player Liverpool are forced to replace.

By Jamie
(The Kopite View)