Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister has shared his disappointment over missing out on international duty with Argentina and reflected on the weight of responsibility that comes with wearing the number 10 shirt at Anfield.
Mac Allister admitted his frustration at not being able to join the Argentina squad this month, revealing he had played through an injury during Liverpool’s season. He missed the Reds’ final two matches due to a lingering minor issue he had been managing for some time.
As a result, the 26-year-old was left out of Argentina’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Colombia.
Argentina, under Lionel Scaloni, secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup in the U.S. earlier this year and convincingly beat Brazil 4-1 in March—a match in which Mac Allister netted the team’s third goal.
Speaking about his absence, the Liverpool star confessed his unhappiness:
“Not being called up really bothers me—it’s something I think about constantly,” he admitted. “I’ve been carrying some issues throughout the season. It’s not a serious injury, but it’s one that needs rest to avoid becoming worse, especially with the World Cup approaching.”
He emphasized the high standards within the national team:
“We all know how competitive it is to stay in the squad. Talented players are always coming through, so there’s no room to relax.”
Mac Allister praised the leadership within the Argentina setup, naming coach Scaloni and veterans like Lionel Messi, Ángel Di María, and Nicolás Otamendi as key figures who drive the team forward.
“They’ve shown us the way—especially Leo, who has already won it all but still pushes to achieve more.”
This season, Mac Allister featured in 30 Premier League matches and made 49 total appearances across all competitions for Liverpool, helping the club claim a record-equalling 20th league title.
In an interview with DSports Radio, he shared his mindset:
“Winning is everything to me, whether at Liverpool or with Argentina. That’s always the priority. I’m excited about the next World Cup—this year will be critical in preparing for it. It won’t be easy, with strong teams like France and Spain in great form, and Brazil always a threat, especially now with Ancelotti in charge.”
Reflecting on his club season, Mac Allister also spoke about the significance of his squad number:
“Wearing the number 10 at Liverpool comes with great responsibility, both on and off the field. It’s a big role, but I embrace it. When you’re out there playing, you’re not thinking about the number, but it definitely carries weight. I just try to enjoy football—and I truly do.”