Alexis Mac Allister has stated that he believes his best position is as part of a double defensive pivot, as speculation about his long-term future at Liverpool continues. The 27-year-old Argentina international is currently preparing for the World Cup in North America, where his side faces Cape Verde in the round of 32 on Friday evening.
Mac Allister was among several Liverpool players who endured an underwhelming season, which culminated in the sacking of head coach Arne Slot and his replacement by Andoni Iraola. With two years remaining on his current contract, Mac Allister has not yet been offered a new deal by the Reds, fueling rumors of a potential summer exit. Real Madrid have been frequently mentioned as possible suitors.
Real Madrid's Changing Situation
However, the landscape has shifted since Jose Mourinho took over as Real Madrid boss earlier this month. The club has already secured Bernardo Silva on a free transfer from Manchester City and is reportedly exploring a big-money move for Enzo Fernandez, Mac Allister's fellow Argentina international midfielder who plays for Chelsea. This could impact Real Madrid's pursuit of Mac Allister.
Mac Allister's Preferred Role
Mac Allister featured in all but two of Liverpool's matches last season, often deployed in various midfield roles. He previously operated as a number six alongside Ryan Gravenberch in the 2023-24 campaign but was used more flexibly last term. When asked about his preferred position, Mac Allister explained his evolution.
"When I was young I used to play as a 10. In Argentina I would play a lot in maybe a diamond, so 4-3-1-2. I used to play as 10. Then when I came to England, playing at 10 was a little harder for me, so I moved a little bit deeper to play as an eight," Mac Allister told ESPN's Ball Knowledge. "I like to do a bit of everything and try to help the team wherever I can. I like to be close to the ball, and I feel like to be close to the ball. Maybe the position as a double six is my best position. But I can play everywhere."
Admiration for Fellow Midfielders
Mac Allister also named Barcelona's Pedri and Paris Saint-Germain duo Vitinha and Joao Neves as his favorite current midfielders. "I would say Pedri is my favourite. He's in a really good level and he's showing the whole world how to play football. Then you have Vitinha and Joao Neves as well. We played against them and they are really good and not just on the ball, but physically off the ball they are very smart. I really like them," he added.
