Alexis Mac Allister: The Best Midfielder in Europe – The Stats Prove It | OneFootball

Alexis Mac Allister: The Beating Heart of Liverpool’s Midfield

Liverpool’s midfield has seen significant shifts over the past few seasons, but one constant this campaign has been the influence of Alexis Mac Allister. The Stat Me Up! podcast from Anfield Index, featuring Dave Davis and Dr Phil Barter, delved into the numbers behind Mac Allister’s performances, painting a clear picture of his importance to Arne Slot’s Liverpool.

Statistical Dominance in Midfield

Mac Allister’s value isn’t just based on subjective analysis—it’s backed by the data. According to Dr Phil Barter, when Mac Allister starts, Liverpool win 76% of their matches, which means, in Barter’s words, “three-quarters of the games we’re winning if Mac Allister is starting.”

His influence extends beyond just results. The numbers show that when Mac Allister is on the pitch, Liverpool average 2.6 goals per game while conceding just 0.8 expected goals (XG) per match. As Davis pointed out, “It’s close to three being scored and below one being conceded.” That level of control is a testament to his ability to balance defensive security with attacking progression.

Passing and Positional Intelligence

One of Mac Allister’s standout qualities is his positional intelligence and passing ability. His ability to adapt mid-game was highlighted by Barter, who noted, “You can see generally in around that left space, and in the second half, he’s typically a little bit further forward.”

His passing combinations are just as telling. His most frequent passing partners are Andy Robertson and Virgil van Dijk, with a pass completion rate of 97% and 96%, respectively. Even more impressively, every single pass he has played to Cody Gakpo and Kostas Tsimikas has been completed (100%).

As Barter put it, “He hits Robertson at a 97% pass rate and Van Dijk at 96%. That’s the control he gives.” His role as a midfield connector ensures Liverpool’s build-up remains fluid and structured.

Goal Threat and Expected Contributions

While not a prolific goalscorer, Mac Allister contributes significantly to Liverpool’s attacking output. He has taken 35 shots this season, with 24 inside the penalty area, and has scored three goals. His xG per match sits at 3.45, highlighting his ability to arrive in dangerous positions without necessarily being the main goal threat.

His biggest moments often come at the start of each half, with his highest xG periods in the first 15 minutes of both halves. Barter noted how “He’s normally on it trying to get xG threat and trying to get us going again.”

The numbers show that when Mac Allister starts, Liverpool’s attack clicks into gear. His movement and passing combinations, particularly with Luis Díaz, have been a major source of attacking threat. Barter explained, “In terms of a forward pass, Díaz, although it’s a more risky pass, is the combination that creates the most threat.”

Defensive Work and Pressing Triggers

Beyond his attacking numbers, Mac Allister’s defensive contributions are crucial. He has a duel success rate of 41% and an aerial duel success of 37%. While not the most physically dominant, he compensates with intelligence.

Davis summed it up: “The number of midfielders intelligent enough to do what Mac Allister does is so small.” This intelligence allows him to position himself effectively, particularly in Liverpool’s high-press system, where he drops centrally off the ball to stop transitions.

Even though he isn’t a traditional defensive midfielder, the numbers suggest he helps Liverpool maintain defensive solidity, with Barter pointing out, “He’s part of a unit that concedes less than 0.9 a game, which is very, very good.”

Photo: IMAGO

Importance of Intelligence Over Physicality

One of the most fascinating aspects of Mac Allister’s game is his ability to read the game ahead of his opponents. Unlike other midfielders who rely on physicality, he thrives on intelligence.

Barter explained it well: “If he had the physical attributes as well as everything else, then blimey, we’d have a player that everybody would be asking for.” However, rather than seeing this as a limitation, he compensates with an exceptional football IQ.

“He has to think that little bit ahead of what the opposition are going to do,” Barter added. His awareness and decision-making allow him to dictate the tempo, ensuring that Liverpool remain in control.

Conclusion: The Key Man in Liverpool’s Midfield

Liverpool’s midfield has undergone a tactical evolution, and Mac Allister is at the heart of it. His technical quality, intelligence, and ability to link play make him a vital asset under Arne Slot.

Whether dictating tempo, linking play with Robertson and Van Dijk, or stepping up in key moments, he is proving to be one of the smartest midfielders in the Premier League.

As Davis summed up: “Let’s hope he carries on at this level.”