Arne Slot Provides Alexis Mac Allister Update Ahead of Liverpool’s Clash with Arsenal | OneFootball

Liverpool Facing Alexis Mac Allister Fitness Concern ahead of Arsenal Clash

Liverpool supporters left St James’ Park on Sunday night with mixed feelings. The 3-2 victory over Newcastle United was thrilling, sealed by a dramatic Rio Ngumoha winner deep into stoppage time, yet it also brought fresh concerns for manager Arne Slot as Alexis Mac Allister sat out the contest entirely.

Arne Slot Addresses Alexis Mac Allister Absence

There had been early murmurs before kick-off that the Argentine midfielder had suffered a setback. When Mac Allister was not seen arriving with the squad in Newcastle, worries began to grow. Confirmation soon followed that he had indeed picked up a knock and was not part of the matchday squad.

Speaking after the game, Slot offered cautious optimism about the situation. “He had to leave the training pitch two days ago,” said the Liverpool head coach. “He missed so much of pre-season. I am hoping things improve in the next couple of days so he’s available for Sunday.”

Photo: IMAGO

For a Liverpool side preparing to face Arsenal in a crucial Premier League fixture this weekend, the possibility of Mac Allister returning will be significant. His control and sharp passing have been central to Slot’s system, particularly in big games where midfield stability becomes decisive.

Curtis Jones Steps into Midfield Role

With Mac Allister sidelined, Slot turned to Curtis Jones to fill the gap. Jones produced a steady display, but his inclusion also highlighted a vulnerability. The balance of Liverpool’s midfield is different without Mac Allister, and Newcastle found more space than Slot would have liked.

Jones, however, carries confidence in his ability to influence matches. Should Mac Allister fail to recover in time for Arsenal, Jones will likely keep his place and attempt to rise to the occasion once again.

Importance of Mac Allister for Liverpool’s Season

Liverpool’s return to the Premier League summit under Slot has been built on both discipline and attacking fluidity. Mac Allister embodies much of that balance. His composure in possession, his ability to link midfield with attack, and his resilience in pressing situations make him essential to how Liverpool function.

Against Arsenal, a team equally driven by midfield intensity, his presence could prove decisive. Slot will be eager not only to have him fit for Sunday but also to avoid unnecessary strain that might rule him out for longer. With an international break looming, Liverpool will hope Argentina’s staff show restraint if Mac Allister is not fully ready.

Slot’s Measured Approach Ahead of Arsenal

Slot has already shown in his short tenure that pragmatism can sit comfortably alongside ambition. He will not risk Mac Allister lightly, yet the timing of this injury is particularly delicate. Liverpool want to build on their momentum after a testing win at Newcastle, and the trip to Arsenal will demand their strongest possible lineup.

If Mac Allister is passed fit, it will not only boost Liverpool’s chances at the Emirates but also steady a squad that has already endured emotional and physical strain in recent weeks. Slot, calm but clear, knows just how vital the Argentine is to Liverpool’s campaign.