Alexis Mac Allister Discusses Arne Slot’s Tactical Approach: What Liverpool Fans Can Expect
As Liverpool embarks on the 2024/25 Premier League campaign under the guidance of Arne Slot, supporters are eager to see how the Dutch manager will shape the team. With a solid 2-0 victory against Ipswich Town in their opening match, Liverpool has already shown signs of Slot’s influence. Alexis Mac Allister, one of the club’s key players, has shed light on some of the tactical nuances that fans can expect to see as the season progresses.
Photo: IMAGO
Adapting to Slot’s Structured Approach
Mac Allister’s transition at Liverpool has been intriguing to watch. Initially brought in by Jürgen Klopp, the World Cup-winning midfielder has been versatile, often deployed in various roles on the pitch. Last season, he found himself operating in deeper midfield positions, an area relatively new to him. However, under Slot’s leadership, there are indications that his role will evolve once again.
In Liverpool’s recent win over Ipswich Town, Mac Allister was positioned as a No.8, with Ryan Gravenberch taking up the deeper, defensive midfield role. This shift allowed Mac Allister to play further forward, a position more aligned with his natural game. Reflecting on this change, he noted that Slot’s tactical approach is distinctly more structured compared to his predecessor’s.
“I think this manager asks more to stay in the position, and that’s maybe like a different structure,” Mac Allister explained during an interview with Viaplay. “But the principles are the same. We know that defensively we have to run, we have to give our 100 per cent, the last two steps are so important and that can make the difference.”
This structured approach is likely to be a cornerstone of Slot’s philosophy at Liverpool. Unlike Klopp’s more dynamic and fluid system, Slot appears to prioritise positional discipline, which could see players like Mac Allister operating in roles that maximise their strengths while maintaining the team’s tactical shape.
Early Signs of Slot’s Influence
Photo: IMAGO
Liverpool’s victory over Ipswich Town wasn’t just about the result; it was also an early glimpse into how Slot’s ideas are being implemented on the pitch. The match itself was a tale of two halves, with Liverpool struggling to find their rhythm in the first period before turning the screw in the second half.
Mac Allister offered insight into this, pointing out that the team’s pressing game was more effective after the break. “I think it was more about the last step when we were pressing,” he said. “Maybe [in the] first half we were not at 100 per cent, but in the second half, we showed the team we can be, and we are really happy with our second-half performance.”
This observation underscores the importance of Slot’s tactical adjustments during the game. While the first half was characterised by a lack of intensity in pressing, the second half saw Liverpool regain control, applying the kind of pressure that eventually led to their two-goal victory. This ability to adapt and refine tactics mid-game is a positive sign for Liverpool fans, suggesting that Slot is a manager capable of making crucial in-game decisions.
What to Expect in the Coming Weeks
With Brentford on the horizon, Liverpool supporters will be eager to see how Slot’s system continues to develop. Mac Allister’s comfort in a more advanced role could be a key factor in Liverpool’s attacking play. His vision, combined with his ability to press high and maintain positional discipline, could make him a pivotal figure in Slot’s plans.
Moreover, Slot’s emphasis on structure and positional awareness may benefit Liverpool’s overall defensive solidity, something that was occasionally lacking last season. As Mac Allister mentioned, “There is a couple of changes, not much, but I think Arne can help us to be a better team.”
As Liverpool continues to adapt to Slot’s methods, the tactical tweaks will be closely watched. Will the structured approach bring more consistency to Liverpool’s performances? Can Mac Allister thrive in his evolved role? These are questions that will be answered as the season unfolds.
Conclusion
Arne Slot’s arrival at Liverpool marks the beginning of a new era, one where structure and positional discipline are likely to play a significant role. Alexis Mac Allister’s insights provide a glimpse into the tactical changes already taking shape, with encouraging signs of improvement evident in their opening match. As Liverpool gears up for the challenges ahead, fans can look forward to seeing how Slot’s approach continues to shape the team’s performances.
