Alexis Mac Allister has voiced his disappointment at missing out on Argentina duty this month, disclosing that he's been playing through pain for Liverpool this season. The 26-year-old midfielder was forced to sit out the Reds' last two matches due to a nagging minor injury he's been managing.
Consequently, Mac Allister is sidelined for Argentina's World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Colombia, missing the chance to add to his international appearances.
Despite Argentina, under Lionel Scaloni, having already booked their spot in next year's World Cup in the United States and coming off a resounding 4-1 victory over Brazil in March – where Mac Allister netted the third goal – the Liverpool player is far from content with being unable to contribute on the pitch.
"Not being on the roster infuriates me — sometimes it's a question I ask myself every day," he expressed. "But I've had some issues throughout the year."
He downplayed the severity of his injury, describing it as minor but acknowledged the need for rest to prevent further complications, especially with the World Cup looming.
"We're aware that we're in the national team. Good players always emerge, and that means we never relax and want to be here."
The 26-year-old has been ruled out of Argentina's World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Colombia this month
The 26-year-old has been ruled out of Argentina's World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Colombia this month (Image: Nikki Dyer - LFC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
"The important thing is to have leaders like Scaloni, Leo (Messi), Fideo (Angel Di María) in his time, (Nicolas) Otamendi — they're players who led us on the path of continuing to try. Or Leo, who won everything and wants to keep achieving things."
Mac Allister played a pivotal role in Liverpool's march to its 20th league title, starting 30 Premier League matches and racking up 49 appearances across all competitions for Arne Slot's team this term.
In a conversation with Latin American sports channel DSports Radio, he expressed his competitive spirit: "Winning is always the best thing; that's what matters most to me. At Liverpool and with the Argentina national team, I prioritize that."
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Fanatics Official Sports Apparel — Liverpool
He also shared his anticipation for the upcoming World Cup, acknowledging the challenges ahead: "I'm really looking forward to playing in another World Cup; this year is going to be key. The World Cup is going to be very difficult. France and Spain are at a great level. Brazil always comes out strong at the World Cups, and even more so with (Carlo) Ancelotti (now in charge)."
Reflecting on his time at Anfield, Mac Allister highlighted the significance of his shirt number: "Wearing the Liverpool number 10 is huge. It means a huge responsibility, both on and off the pitch. Number 10 is definitely a responsibility, but I take it in my stride."
He concluded by discussing his approach to the game.
"When you're playing, you're not constantly looking at your number, but in general I want to enjoy playing football: and I really enjoy it."