No big deal: how Mac Allister shook off contract doubts to fire Liverpool’s revival

Alexis Mac Allister found himself in a strong position to apply pressure on Liverpool over a new contract before Atlético Madrid's visit to Anfield last month, although only in the physical sense of being up on stage to preview the game. In reality, the 27-year-old's negotiating stance was relatively weak. And in fairness to the Argentina international, he has been true to his word in flipping the narrative in his favour ever since.

As the past two Premier League champions prepare to meet at Anfield, when Liverpool can narrow the gap on Arsenal to three points with a fourth successive home win in all competitions, Mac Allister's form encapsulates the impressive improvement of Iraola's team. He has become the indispensable part of Liverpool's central midfield.

Contract Uncertainty

Mac Allister expressed sadness over the absence of a new contract offer and a little envy, cloaked in happiness, over the ones awarded to teammates Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch. The following night he struck an immaculate winner against Diego Simeone's side.

A major influence when Liverpool won their 20th league championship under Arne Slot, Mac Allister faded badly in the Dutchman's second and final season in charge. Despite reminding a global audience of his qualities as Argentina reached a second World Cup final in succession, rumours of an Anfield exit this summer were met with a general shrug of shoulders rather than howls of protest.

Liverpool's stance over a contract that had entered its final two years confirmed they didn't consider an extension a priority. The club have been paying Mac Allister a lucrative salary since he joined in June 2023 for £35m – below market value – due to a release clause in his Brighton contract.

Defensive Transformation

Figures from Opta show Mac Allister is winning more tackles per Premier League game this season – 2.3 on average compared to 1.8 last season; winning more duels (4.8 from 3.8); winning more aerial duels (0.9 from 0.6) and winning more possession (5.6 on average compared to 3.8).

He is sacrificing the offensive side of his game to bring more aggression and organisation to the defensive aspect, and his touches in the opposition box, chances created, goals and assists are all down on last season as a consequence.

Revival Under Iraola

Last season, and early in the current one as Liverpool adapted to their change of coach, there would have been concern at Anfield over the potential damage an Arsenal midfield of Declan Rice, Bruno Guimarães and Martin Ødegaard could inflict. They still might, with Iraola saying his team need to improve 'almost everywhere'.

But talk of the midfield being frequently overrun has fallen silent during a winning run underpinned by aggression, resilience and intensity. Mac Allister has embodied it all. His negotiating position is strong once again as Liverpool looks to close the gap on Arsenal.