Alexis Mac Allister has expressed that he feels “really comfortable” in his new midfield role under head coach Arne Slot and is thoroughly enjoying his football this season.
After joining Liverpool from Brighton & Hove Albion for £35 million last summer, Mac Allister was frequently deployed as a No. 6 under Jurgen Klopp.
However, with the emergence of Ryan Gravenberch this term, the Argentinian has been relieved of some of his defensive responsibilities.
Under Slot, the 25-year-old primarily plays in a double pivot alongside Gravenberch, allowing him more freedom to advance and contribute to Liverpool’s attacking play.
This subtle tactical shift has proven fruitful for the Reds, who have made an impressive start under their new head coach, aside from a surprising defeat to Nottingham Forest.
Mac Allister is excited about the opportunity to further develop his skills in Liverpool’s midfield.
“Maybe last season I played most of the year as a six so my position is quite different but at the same time we have a lot of freedom,” Mac Allister said ahead of the Reds’ Champions League clash with Bologna.
“We try to have a structure and know where our teammates are going to be but we have our freedom as well, sometimes just Ryan as a six, sometimes a double six and Dom (Szoboszlai) as a 10 but it changes a lot in the game.
“What I can see is that I feel really comfortable and I really like the idea.
“I’m really enjoying my football and hopefully tomorrow we can show it.”
He added: “I think between Arne and Jurgen the principles are the same.
“I don’t think there is a huge difference.
“I just think now we have more of a structure and some patterns that we are trying to improve.
“That’s the main difference.”
The World Cup winner also discussed his South American teammate, Luis Diaz, highlighting his significant improvement under coach Slot.
The Colombian winger has scored five league goals in just six matches this season.
However, Alexis Mac Allister believes there is still room for Diaz to enhance his performance further.
“I think he knows how important the numbers are for strikers and wingers and I am very happy he is getting the goals and assists,” the midfielder said.
“He has been amazing for us, I think he can still improve and play the way he plays.
“Consistency is key and hopefully he can show during the year how fantastic he is.”
Wednesday night will be a significant milestone for Mac Allister, as it marks his first Champions League match at Anfield.
He made his debut in the competition against AC Milan last month.
Regarding the possibility of concluding his inaugural Champions League campaign with silverware, the Argentina international said: “Of course it is a dream.
“For some people it was a surprise I won a World Cup but I made my debut against Milan in the Champions League so it is quite crazy but it is a dream to win it.
“When you play for Liverpool you have to fight for it.
“We have good players, a good team, we will see at the end of the season if we can fight for it.”
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