Liverpool’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Newcastle United on August 25, 2025, was a testament to their resilience, but it came with a lingering concern: the absence of Alexis Mac Allister. The Argentine midfielder, a linchpin in Liverpool’s engine room, missed the match after withdrawing from training earlier in the week. Manager Arne Slot, speaking after the dramatic win at St. James’ Park, provided a detailed update on Mac Allister’s fitness, offering both reassurance and a glimpse into the challenges facing the Reds as they prepare to host Arsenal on Sunday.
Mac Allister’s absence was keenly felt in a match that demanded physical and mental fortitude. The 3-2 win, sealed by a sensational last-gasp goal from 16-year-old debutant Rio Ngumoha, highlighted Liverpool’s depth but also underscored the importance of their star midfielder. Slot revealed that Mac Allister’s issue stemmed from a minor setback during training, exacerbated by his lack of a full pre-season. Having missed the tail end of the 2024/25 campaign and only returning for the Community Shield earlier this month, the former Brighton star has been carefully managed to avoid overexertion. “It would not have been the biggest problem if he had a proper pre-season,” Slot explained, emphasizing the delicate balance of managing players with limited preparation.
The intensity of recent matches, particularly against Bournemouth and Newcastle, has tested Liverpool’s squad to its limits. Slot noted that the physical demands of these games, coupled with Newcastle’s direct style—marked by long throws, free-kicks, and aerial bombardment—required players to be at peak fitness. For Mac Allister, who “probably felt something” in training, Slot deemed it too risky to play him in such a high-stakes environment with a long season ahead. However, the Dutch manager remains optimistic, stating, “I am hoping things improve in the next one or two days so he is available for Sunday.” This cautious approach reflects Slot’s broader strategy of prioritizing player welfare to sustain Liverpool’s title challenge.
The Arsenal clash at Anfield looms large, and Mac Allister’s potential return could be pivotal. His vision, composure, and ability to dictate play are crucial against a well-drilled Gunners side led by Mikel Arteta. Yet, Slot’s comments also raised questions about Liverpool’s squad management and depth. The absence of Jeremie Frimpong due to a hamstring injury forced Slot to deploy Dominik Szoboszlai at right-back, a move that paid dividends with the Hungarian’s clever dummy setting up Ngumoha’s winner. Slot praised Szoboszlai’s mentality, noting, “It’s not easy to play as a full-back if you’ve only been a midfielder in your career.” This adaptability highlights Liverpool’s versatility but also exposes vulnerabilities in their defensive ranks.
Slot’s reflections on the Newcastle match revealed another layer of complexity. Despite playing against 10 men after Anthony Gordon’s first-half red card, Liverpool struggled to control the game. Newcastle’s relentless set-piece strategy and physicality disrupted the Reds’ rhythm, with Slot admitting, “You cannot control the game if every single ball is thrown into your 18-yard box.” He lamented his team’s lack of patience in attack, as rushed passes led to turnovers and more defensive pressure. This analysis suggests that Slot is still fine-tuning his tactical approach, balancing Liverpool’s attacking flair with the pragmatism needed to navigate grueling fixtures.
For Liverpool fans, Slot’s update on Mac Allister brings cautious optimism. His potential return could bolster the midfield, but the manager’s candid remarks about pre-season fitness and squad management have sparked questions about how Liverpool will cope with the season’s demands. As they prepare for Arsenal, the Reds are buoyed by their recent heroics but reminded that depth, resilience, and careful planning will define their campaign. With Slot at the helm, Liverpool’s blend of youth and experience offers hope, but the road ahead remains fraught with challenges.