Alexis Mac Allister has revealed how Andoni Iraola has addressed Liverpool’s internal problems and changed the team’s tactical approach following Arne Slot’s departure from Anfield.
The Argentine midfielder delivered a decisive performance against Villarreal on Tuesday night, scoring twice as Liverpool claimed a dramatic 4-3 Champions League victory after falling behind to two early goals.
Mac Allister’s display offered a glimpse of his renewed confidence under Iraola, who has reportedly introduced significant changes to the team’s defensive structure and overall mentality since taking charge.
Speaking after the victory, the World Cup winner admitted Liverpool struggled collectively last season and acknowledged that his own performances fell below expectations.
“Last year was a really difficult year for all of us,” he told Amazon Prime. “It was clear that I was not at the level. I am the first one to say, I have no problem.
“Something wasn’t right in the group. This manager changed it, and that’s really important.”
Slot won the Premier League during his first season in charge at Anfield, but Liverpool subsequently endured a disappointing campaign that ended with a fifth-place finish. The Dutchman’s departure paved the way for Iraola, who has since sought to restore confidence and establish a different tactical identity.
Mac Allister explained that one of the most noticeable changes has been Liverpool’s shift towards a more aggressive man-to-man approach, contrasting with the zonal system employed previously.
“The way we play is quite different. I don’t like to compare.
“I feel good, that’s what I want and that’s what I enjoy.
“Now, it’s more man to man. You have to communicate less because you have to follow [the opponent]. Last year it was more of a zonal thing. With the national team we do more of a zonal thing and it works. Now, we do a one vs. one and it works.
“In the end, it’s about us taking the responsibility.
“That’s one of the changes. But now it’s much easier, you have to think less but run more, maybe. That’s the way football is going.”
The midfielder’s comments suggest Iraola wants his players to take greater individual responsibility, particularly when tracking opponents and defending in one-on-one situations. The system demands greater physical commitment, but Mac Allister believes the adjustment has made Liverpool’s responsibilities clearer on the pitch.
The tactical changes were tested against Villarreal, who struck twice early to put the Reds under immediate pressure. Liverpool needed a response, and Mac Allister helped provide it with a well-timed header that reduced the deficit.
Despite not being known for his height, the Argentine has developed a reputation for making intelligent runs into dangerous areas, particularly around the near post.
“I am not tall! But I love going into the box,” he said. “Coaches know that I like to attack the near post. I scored in the World Cup, as well. That’s the place that I like to [get to].
“My dad is the same height, maybe a bit smaller, and he was good in the air as well.”
Liverpool continued their fightback, with Ronald Araújo scoring an equaliser before Mac Allister struck again. His second goal was set up by Rio Ngumoha, whose contribution added another positive moment to the comeback.
For Mac Allister, the performance was about more than two goals. It also reflected his growing comfort under Iraola and the renewed belief within the squad.
Liverpool’s 4-3 victory provided an entertaining Champions League spectacle, but the midfielder’s post-match assessment offered a deeper insight into the changes taking place behind the scenes.
Iraola’s challenge will be to turn that encouraging performance into sustained consistency. If Liverpool can maintain their intensity, tactical discipline and individual accountability, the win over Villarreal could represent an important step towards rebuilding momentum at Anfield.
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