Alexis Mac Allister has entered the final two years of his contract at Liverpool, but the midfielder is yet to receive an extension offer from the Merseyside club
Andoni Iraola spoke to the press ahead of Wednesday's game
Andoni Iraola spoke to the press ahead of Wednesday's game(Image: LFC)
Andoni Iraola is delighted Alexis Mac Allister wants to stay at Liverpool after the midfielder confirmed his disappointment at not receiving a new contract offer from the club.
Mac Allister, 27, hit the headlines on Tuesday by revealing his sadness about not being handed a new deal like fellow midfielders Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai. The World Cup winner's current contract at Anfield is due to expire in just under two years' time.
Mac Allister spoke to the media moments before Liverpool boss Iraola's pre-match press conference for the team's Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday. Iraola was asked about Mac Allister's comments and tried to calm the situation with his response.
"For me, the most important thing is that Alexis wants to be here," said Iraola.
Mac Allister has been a key player for Liverpool ever since his arrival from Brighton three years ago, helping the Reds win the 2024 Carabao Cup and 2025 Premier League. Yet he struggled for form last season, casting uncertainty about his future.
The Argentinian midfielder confirmed on Tuesday that he received offers to depart Liverpool during the summer transfer window but had no intention of leaving.
Alexis Mac Allister revealed that he was sad about not having received a contract offer
Alexis Mac Allister revealed that he was sad about not having received a contract offer(Image: Liverpool)
Mac Allister said: "There was a chance (I could leave), of course, as everyone knows.
"I received the news that the club was not in a position to offer me a new contract, which makes me very, very sad because everyone can see I give 100 percent for this football club every single day in training. I always give my best.
"I see Dominik and Ryan renewing their contracts because they deserve it, it makes me happy, but at the same time, it makes me sad because I didn't get mine.
"We went through a lot together. We won the Premier League together, and we went through difficult times together, but of course, (not being offered a contract) it makes me a little sad."
It's unclear whether Liverpool will offer Mac Allister a new contract in due course. When asked further about the player's situation, Iraola said: "We all have different situations, contracts with a club.
"We haven't been together a lot of time, but he is very important and has played a lot of minutes very highly. We have time to talk about those contract situations."
When asked if he's spoken to Mac Allister about his contract, Iraola admitted: "No.
"I try to help all my players. I hope I can improve my players so I can help them win games. Same with Alexis and everyone else. I'm very happy with Alexis and his performances, especially on Friday. I hope I can help him to improve. He's a very good player."