Arne Slot would have been hoping his entire squad returned to Merseyside unscathed after the international break, but that may not be the case for Alexis Mac Allister.
According to *TyC Sports*, the incident involved Peruvian player Carlos Zambrano, who delivered a heavy challenge on Mac Allister.
The report described it as “a tremendous kick” that seemed leniently punished given the clear force shown in replays, which highlight a harsh tackle targeting the midfielder’s left ankle.
Footage shared on the site underscores the intensity of the challenge, making for uncomfortable viewing. Although the 25-year-old was able to walk off the pitch unassisted, he was substituted shortly after.
Many will now be hoping Mac Allister recovers in time to feature against Southampton, with his fitness likely to be assessed before Liverpool’s next match.
With Virgil van Dijk returning early from the Netherlands camp due to fitness concerns, it’s been far from an ideal international break for Liverpool.
Adding to the worries, Darwin Núñez was substituted at halftime during Uruguay’s most recent match, highlighting why these international breaks are often a source of frustration for fans and coaches.
South American players, in particular, face added strain due to long travel distances and late-week fixtures, often limiting their availability for matches immediately following the break compared to their European counterparts.
With potential fitness issues affecting two key first-team players, it’s likely that the head coach will need to make rotations for the upcoming game at St. Mary’s.
