Alexis Mac Allister has developed a routine in his life that very few footballers have the luxury of possessing. Ever since that spectacular December night in 2022, he unfailingly takes out his World Cup winners’ medal every day, firmly holding it while reminding himself that he has already achieved the ultimate dream in any sport.
Speaking about the significance of the medal, the Liverpool midfielder said, “I look at it every single day. That’s what it symbolises for me, and for the nation as well. My aspiration is to build a small museum at home, a room where all these mementos are displayed. I have a copy of the World Cup, the medal, and some other trophies – all securely stored at the moment – and my plan is to display them where I can always see them.”
Mac Allister’s arrangement considers more such keepsakes, beginning with the highly anticipated Carabao Cup that is up for grabs this Sunday against Chelsea. There is an emphasis on ‘the first’, underlining his confidence that he will need to make room for more trophies in the future. It might sound presumptive, but Mac Allister says it plainly, without any sense of arrogance.
Alexis Mac Allister’s journey and the experiences he has accumulated at a youthful age of 25, particularly playing and winning a World Cup championship alongside the legendary Lionel Messi, naturally propels the belief that his success is just the beginning.
Responding to a query as to what advice he would give to younger members of Liverpool’s squad who are preparing for their first final, Mac Allister stated: “The fact that it’s their first appearance in a final is not the most pertinent aspect. I have witnessed players who have played their first final match and excelled, much like my personal experience in the World Cup. Every player is unique, so I wouldn’t give them any specific advice. They just need to relish the game and play as they do every day. We have a superb team that includes some excellent young players, and we are all prepared to give it our best.”
When it comes to Liverpool’s South American group, Mac Allister is one of the most fluent English speakers and has quickly taken on a transitional role both on and off the pitch since his £35 million move from Brighton and Hove Albion.
The Argentine’s unyielding desire to return to the field after he was injured during a match against Sheffield United before Christmas has been an absolute inspiration for many. Furthermore, his versatility has been key to Jurgen Klopp’s team restructuring. So much so that Klopp has praised Mac Allister’s flexibility this season.
On the prospect of spending many years with Liverpool, Mac Allister said, “Liverpool was the only option for me. Beyond everything, simply the connection I felt from day one is something I haven’t felt at any other club. Here, I truly feel a connection with the fans and the ethos of the club. I genuinely hope to spend several more years here.”
Speaking on former teammate Moises Caicedo’s decision to opt for London over Anfield, Mac Allister mentioned, “It’s a personal choice, and I wouldn’t want to interfere. He slightly upset me with his decision this summer, though. He’s an excellent player and a wonderful person, so I wish him nothing but the best. However, for Sunday’s match, It’s a different scenario.”
Vocabulary List:
- Luxury (noun): Something enjoyable that is not a necessity.
- Keepsakes (noun): Items kept as a reminder of a person or event.
- Presumptive (adjective): Based on likelihood or presumption.
- Accumulated (verb): Gathered or collected over time.
- Transitional (adjective): Relating to a period of change or transition.
- Versatility (noun): Ability to adapt or be used for different purposes.
