Andoni Iraola has refused to rule out a Liverpool move for Tijuana playmaker Gilberto Mora, while Alexis Mac Allister has highlighted the differences between the current manager and his predecessor Arne Slot. The comments come as Liverpool prepare to host Brighton in the Premier League on Sunday.
Iraola Responds to Mora Speculation
Speaking to TNT Sports Mexico on Tuesday, Iraola addressed reports linking Liverpool with Mora, who became the youngest player to represent Mexico at a World Cup this summer. The 18-year-old remains under contract with Tijuana, with reports suggesting Liverpool have submitted a bid in excess of £38 million to make him Liga MX's most expensive export.
"Let's see, not only because of what he's doing," Iraola said. "There are times when you ask me about players, but I can't talk about players who aren't ours, right? In the end, there's respect."
"And there has to be respect between clubs and well, if you'll allow me, I don't have my opinion, obviously, but I prefer not to comment, not about players who aren't from Liverpool."
Mora still has another two-and-a-half years left on his contract with Tijuana, but it is widely expected the Mexican outfit will have little choice in resisting the temptations of Europe's elite should they come calling for the player in 2027.
Mac Allister on Slot Comparison
Alexis Mac Allister has commented on the improvements Liverpool have made since Iraola replaced Arne Slot, after scoring twice in Tuesday's 4-3 Champions League win over Villarreal. The midfielder acknowledged the difficulties of last season under Slot.
"Last year was a really difficult year for all of us," he told Amazon Prime Video on Tuesday. "It was clear that I was not at the level. I am the first one to say, I have no problem. Something wasn't right in the group. This manager changed it, and that's really important."
Mac Allister also detailed the tactical shift under Iraola. "The way we play is quite different. I don't like to compare. I feel good, that's what I want and that's what I enjoy. Now it's more man to man. You have to communicate less because you have to follow [the opponent]."
"Last year it was more of a zonal thing. With the national team we do more of a zonal thing and it works. Now we do a one-v-one and it works. In the end, it's about us taking the responsibility. That's one of the changes, but now it's much easier. You have to think less but run more, maybe. That's the way football is going."
Liverpool are currently fifth in the Premier League and could move up to fourth with a home win against Brighton this Sunday.
