Image Credits: Imago Images
Alexis Mac Allister has bounced back from a difficult season at Liverpool to play a key role in Argentina’s run to the World Cup semi-finals, with England now standing between the holders and another final.
Having broken into Argentina’s starting XI during the group stage of the 2022 World Cup, Mac Allister has become an indispensable figure for his country.
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He played a pivotal role in their triumph in Qatar and was again influential, opening the scoring in a 3-1 quarter-final victory over Switzerland in Kansas City.
His impressive World Cup form follows a disappointing third season at Liverpool, where the former Brighton midfielder struggled for consistency as the Reds finished fifth in the Premier League, leading to Arne Slot’s dismissal.
Mac Allister’s honours already include a World Cup, a Copa America and a Premier League title. He has also won all 12 of his World Cup appearances, underlining his pedigree on the biggest stage.
Wednesday’s semi-final against England will provide another opportunity to showcase his quality against elite opposition.
Regardless of the result, Argentina will remain in the United States until the weekend for either the final or the third-place play-off.
Under FIFA regulations, players involved in the World Cup are entitled to at least three weeks’ rest after the tournament.
As a result, anyone featuring this weekend is unlikely to return to club duty before August 10, less than two weeks before the start of the 2026/27 Premier League season.
According to BBC Sport, there is a strong chance Alexis Mac Allister will not be ready to start the opening weeks of the season. Andoni Iraola’s first game as Liverpool head coach will see him travel to St James’ Park to face Newcastle United.
The match will take place on Sunday, August 23, with a 4.30pm kick-off. Clashes with Nottingham Forest and Ipswich Town complete Liverpool’s opening three fixtures.
Iraola will make his first return to former club Bournemouth on Saturday, September 19, before Liverpool face Manchester City and champions Arsenal at Anfield at the beginning and end of October, respectively.