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)
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