SBOTOP : Mac Allister Makes His Liverpool Decision as Manchester City Lurk

Alexis Mac Allister has made his decision. Despite receiving an approach from Manchester City, the Argentina international has no plans to leave Liverpool this summer.

The midfielder has emerged as a potential alternative for Manchester City after their preferred pursuit of Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez became increasingly complicated. However, Mac Allister’s commitment to Liverpool appears to have closed another possible route for Pep Guardiola’s former club.

The 27-year-old is reportedly happy at Anfield and excited about beginning a new chapter under Liverpool’s incoming head coach, Andoni Iraola.

For Liverpool supporters, the news represents a significant boost at a time when the club is preparing for another major rebuild.

Manchester City Turn to Mac Allister

Manchester City have been forced to rethink their midfield plans after several major changes this summer.

Bernardo Silva has reportedly moved to Real Madrid on a free transfer, while Rodri is heading towards a potential move to Barcelona. Tijjani Reijnders is also set to join Al Qadsiah.

The departures have left City searching for additional midfield quality.

The club have already signed Elliot Anderson and are targeting Ayyoub Bouaddi. However, City still want another midfielder to strengthen their options.

Their preferred target has been Enzo Fernandez.

Manager Enzo Maresca is reportedly keen on the possibility of working with the Chelsea midfielder again. However, Chelsea have made their position clear by setting a £120 million valuation.

Manchester City failed to meet the deadline set by Chelsea for clubs wanting to make a bid at that level.

As a result, Chelsea are prepared to keep Fernandez and reject any late offers arriving at the end of the current transfer window or even in January 2027.

That situation has forced City to explore alternative targets.

Mac Allister Emerges as an Alternative

With the Fernandez situation becoming increasingly difficult, Manchester City turned their attention toward other midfield options.

Mac Allister was among the players identified by City, with reports confirming that the Premier League champions had made an approach.

However, the response from the player’s camp was clear.

Mac Allister has decided to remain at Liverpool.

His father, Carlos Mac Allister, publicly reinforced that position.

“My son will stay at Liverpool. We have never discussed the possibility of him leaving the club this summer,” Carlos said in comments relayed by transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The statement provides a strong indication that there is no intention from Mac Allister’s side to pursue a move away from Anfield.

Further reporting also confirmed that Manchester City had indeed made an approach. Nevertheless, Mac Allister and his representatives made it clear that the midfielder wants to continue his career with Liverpool.

Andoni Iraola Could Be a Major Factor

One of the most interesting reasons behind Mac Allister’s decision is the arrival of Andoni Iraola.

Liverpool endured a difficult 2025/2026 season, which could have opened the door for some players to consider their futures. Instead, Mac Allister appears to see the appointment of Iraola as an exciting opportunity.

According to Graeme Bailey of TeamTalk, Mac Allister is happy at Liverpool and is looking forward to working with the new head coach.

The midfielder reportedly believes Iraola could be an excellent fit for his style of play. He is also said to be excited about the role he could have in the new manager’s tactical plans.

That could be a major reason why Manchester City have struggled to tempt him.

For Mac Allister, the arrival of a new coach represents a fresh opportunity rather than a reason to leave.

Why Mac Allister Wants to Stay at Liverpool

Mac Allister has already established himself as an important part of Liverpool’s midfield since arriving at the club.

His ability to control possession, contribute defensively and support attacks makes him a valuable player in almost any tactical system.

His decision to stay appears to be influenced by several factors:

1. He is happy at Liverpool.
2. He is excited to work under Andoni Iraola.
3. He believes Iraola’s system can suit his strengths.
4. Liverpool continue to view him as an important player.
5. The club are preparing to discuss a new contract.

That combination makes a summer departure highly unlikely.

Liverpool Planning a New Contract

Liverpool are not simply relying on Mac Allister’s current commitment. The club are also considering a new contract for the Argentina international.

His current deal has less than two years remaining, and Liverpool reportedly want to begin discussions toward the end of the year.

The proposed extension would reflect Mac Allister’s importance to the squad and could include improved financial terms.

For Liverpool, securing his future would provide additional stability during a period of significant change.

The club have already appointed a new manager, and keeping experienced players such as Mac Allister could help Iraola establish his footballing philosophy.

Mac Allister Focused on a Fresh Start

Despite Liverpool’s difficult campaign last season, Mac Allister appears determined to remain part of the project.

Rather than searching for an exit, the midfielder is focused on returning to work and becoming an important player under Iraola.

That mentality could prove crucial for Liverpool.

A motivated Mac Allister gives Iraola a reliable option in midfield while also providing the new coach with a player who already understands the demands of Premier League football.

Manchester City’s interest may have created headlines, but it has not changed Mac Allister’s plans.

Manchester City Must Look Elsewhere

For Manchester City, Mac Allister’s decision represents another obstacle in their search for midfield reinforcements.

With Fernandez effectively unavailable unless Chelsea change their position, City will need to continue exploring alternatives.

Mac Allister would have been an attractive option because of his Premier League experience, technical ability and versatility. However, his commitment to Liverpool means City must now focus their attention elsewhere.

For Liverpool, meanwhile, the message could hardly be better.

Mac Allister wants to stay, he is excited about Iraola’s plans and the club are considering a new contract.

After a difficult season, Liverpool are hoping for a fresh beginning. Keeping one of their most important midfielders could be the first major step toward making that turnaround a reality.