Liverpool midfielder is a doubt for Man United clash after latest update | OneFootball

Liverpool Concern Over Alexis Mac Allister Ahead of Man United Clash

Liverpool are facing a major dilemma with Alexis Mac Allister as preparations continue for the huge Premier League showdown against Man United at Anfield on Saturday 19 October. The midfielder has been dealing with lingering fitness problems since the end of last season and his availability is now in serious doubt.

Mac Allister explained earlier this year that his absence was the result of “two or three different things” rather than one isolated setback. Those issues ruled him out of Liverpool’s final two league fixtures last term and severely disrupted his pre-season rhythm. Despite returning to action, he has yet to complete a full 90 minutes this campaign and has already withdrawn from training on several occasions, including before the win at Newcastle.

Argentina Schedule Adds To Liverpool’s Frustration

Just as hopes grew of the 26-year-old regaining full sharpness, the international calendar has complicated matters further. Argentina were due to face Puerto Rico in Chicago on Monday 13 October, however the Athletic reports that “social protests” and disappointing ticket sales prompted the fixture to be moved to Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium on Tuesday 14 October instead.

Photo: IMAGO

The rescheduled date leaves Liverpool in an uncomfortable position. Instead of returning with five full days of recovery, Mac Allister will now land back on Merseyside late on Wednesday. Full training restarts on Thursday, leaving barely 48 hours before Liverpool host Man United.

Slot’s Cautious Strategy Faces First Real Test

Arne Slot has taken a sensible approach so far this season, managing Mac Allister’s involvement carefully to avoid aggravating his condition. The schedule only intensifies over the coming weeks with United’s visit kicking off a gruelling spell of seven matches in just 22 days.

Given that the midfielder “has not exactly been at his best so far this season” and remains without a complete appearance, Slot may judge the risk too high. With Liverpool targeting another Premier League title defence under their new manager, one wrong call could have longer-term consequences.

Decision Looms Ahead Of Crucial Fixture

Liverpool supporters are desperate to see Mac Allister dictate play against Man United, particularly with such a crucial run of fixtures ahead. Yet every sign points to caution prevailing. If he features in Miami, the timeline leaves little room for meaningful preparation.

This scenario underlines a wider issue facing elite clubs as international duty continues to collide with domestic demands. For Liverpool, patience may be the wiser route even if it means entering their biggest rivalry showdown without one of their most gifted midfielders.