Key Liverpool Star Missing For Tonight’s Newcastle Match | OneFootball

Alexis Mac Allister missing as Liverpool arrive for Newcastle Utd clash

Mac Allister absence raises questions

Liverpool’s preparations for their trip to Newcastle Utd have been overshadowed by the absence of Alexis Mac Allister, who was not among the 21 players spotted arriving on Tyneside ahead of Monday’s fixture at St James’ Park.

The Argentine midfielder, integral to Arne Slot’s plans, was not seen disembarking the team coach alongside his teammates at the INNSiDE hotel on the quayside. While no official explanation has been given, it is understood that Mac Allister’s partner is expecting their first child – a personal matter that could account for his omission from the travelling group.

Slot has been transparent on such situations in the past, citing family reasons when Ryan Gravenberch missed the Community Shield earlier this month, and a similar announcement could be forthcoming should Mac Allister be unavailable against Newcastle Utd.

Selection challenges for Slot

Much of the build-up to this fixture has centred on who will fill the right-back role, with Jeremie Frimpong sidelined by injury and both Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez lacking full match fitness. Bradley has nonetheless made the trip, though there is caution around his readiness for a full 90 minutes.

This leaves Slot weighing up alternatives, with Dominik Szoboszlai and Wataru Endo both considered potential emergency options. Neither is a natural fit, but circumstances may force improvisation.

Midfield depth under strain

If Mac Allister does not feature, Liverpool’s midfield depth will be notably reduced. Curtis Jones is likely to step in alongside Gravenberch, though this reshuffle would leave only Elliott and Endo available as substitutes in central areas.

Given Newcastle Utd’s intensity at St James’ Park, losing Mac Allister would represent a significant setback. His ability to control tempo and link play has been central to Slot’s early work, and his absence would place added pressure on Jones and Gravenberch to shoulder responsibility.

Youth and new arrivals among travelling party

The squad list confirmed several other notable developments. New signing Giovanni Leoni, the 18-year-old defender, has travelled for the first time since his registration was completed, and he is expected to be named among the substitutes.

Kostas Tsimikas remains absent amid ongoing speculation about his future, while Frimpong continues rehabilitation from his injury. Florian Wirtz, Federico Chiesa and academy graduate Treymaurice Ngumoha were all present, adding attacking variety to Slot’s options in the absence of Mac Allister.

The manager will now need to make difficult decisions on both personnel and shape. Missing players, particularly Mac Allister, could test Liverpool’s resilience against a Newcastle Utd side renowned for their home strength.