Liverpool star honest about issues last season and how things have changed

Liverpool star honest about issues last season and how things have changed Alexis Mac Allister Credits Iraola for Liverpool Revival After Villarreal Comeback Alexis Mac Allister has offered a revealing insight into Liverpool’s transformation under Andoni Iraola, admitting that problems within the squad last season had left the club struggling to fulfil its potential. The Argentina international was instrumental in Liverpool’s thrilling 4-3 Champions League victory over Villarreal at Anfield, scoring twice as the Reds recovered from a two-goal deficit to maintain their perfect European record. Liverpool have now won five of their last six matches in all competitions, with Mac Allister identifying Iraola’s arrival as an important factor behind their improvement. Mac Allister Reveals Iraola’s Impact on Liverpool Iraola arrived from Bournemouth during the summer following Arne Slot’s dismissal, inheriting a Liverpool squad seeking renewed direction after failing to defend its Premier League title. Photo IMAGO Speaking to Gabby Logan on Amazon Prime Video following the Villarreal victory, Mac Allister offered an unusually candid assessment of the changes behind the scenes. “Last season something wasn’t right in the group and this manager changed it, and that’s really important. The way we play is quite different, I don’t like to compare but I am really enjoying it. “From the first day, I started seeing something. He’s a nice guy and the coaching staff is too. We are going in the right direction but we need to work and put in everything. Hopefully we can win some trophies.” Those comments underline the importance of the atmosphere Iraola has established within the Liverpool dressing room. Mac Allister endured a difficult campaign last season, struggling to reproduce the consistency that previously made him such an influential figure. His performances this term have been considerably more encouraging, with four goals in all competitions and a succession of impressive midfield displays. Liverpool Villarreal Comeback Highlights Mac Allister’s Quality Liverpool’s recovery against Villarreal required determination and attacking precision after a difficult opening period. Mac Allister provided both, scoring a crucial header before adding a second from close range following excellent work by Rio Ngumoha. The midfielder explained his enthusiasm for attacking dangerous areas despite his relatively modest height. “I’m not tall but I love going in the box. I really like it. They know I like to attack the near post. “I scored in the World Cup as well. It was a good header. The second goal, Rio [Ngumoha], was amazing. I talk with him about cutting it back on the floor. “It’s not something I really practice. My dad is a bit smaller than me but he was quite good in the air so maybe it’s something I got from him.” His contribution against Villarreal demonstrated the attacking instincts that have become increasingly prominent under Iraola. The understanding between Mac Allister and Ngumoha was particularly evident for Liverpool’s second-half goal, with the teenager delivering precisely the type of pass the midfielder had requested. Mac Allister Addresses Liverpool Contract Uncertainty Mac Allister’s resurgence has also brought renewed attention to his future at Anfield. His current Liverpool contract expires in the summer of 2028, and the midfielder previously admitted feeling “very sad” about the absence of an extension offer. Asked about those remarks following the Villarreal encounter, he clarified his position. “When I say what I said, it was more about my feelings,” he said. “That’s their decision and it’s fine. I do my best and in the end, we’ll see what happens.” His response leaves Liverpool with an important decision regarding a midfielder whose influence has grown significantly under their new manager. With three victories from three Champions League matches, Liverpool have established an encouraging platform in Europe. Mac Allister’s form, alongside the team’s improved results, offers further evidence of the progress being made under Iraola. For a club determined to challenge for major honours again, retaining influential performers and maintaining the momentum established in recent weeks will be central to that ambition.