Liverpool Boss Andoni Iraola Vows to Keep Alexis Mac Allister and Alisson at the Club

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has expressed his desire for midfielder Alexis Mac Allister and goalkeeper Alisson to remain with the club, according to a report from BBC Sport. The statement highlights the manager’s emphasis on retaining key players as the team navigates its planning for the upcoming season.

Mac Allister, who joined Liverpool in a £42.5 million move from Brighton in January 2023, has been a consistent presence in the midfield, contributing to the team’s attacking play and defensive structure. His versatility across multiple positions has made him a valuable asset, particularly in high-stakes matches. Alisson, the club’s first-choice goalkeeper since 2016, has been instrumental in Liverpool’s recent successes, including their Champions League triumph in 2019 and their Premier League title win in 2020.

Iraola’s comments come amid speculation about potential transfers and squad reshaping. The manager’s focus on retaining these players suggests confidence in their roles within the team’s long-term strategy. “The club’s priority is to keep our core players,” Iraola stated in the report. “Mac Allister and Alisson are vital to our ambitions, and we’re working to ensure their futures with Liverpool.”

Liverpool’s current squad faces a critical period as they prepare for the 2026-27 season. The club’s performance in the 2025-26 campaign, which saw them finish third in the Premier League and reach the Europa League semifinals, has underscored the importance of stability in key positions. Mac Allister’s injury record, which included a prolonged absence in late 2025 due to a knee issue, has raised questions about his availability, but his recovery appears to be on track. Alisson, meanwhile, has maintained a high level of consistency, though his contract expires in 2027, leaving room for negotiations.

The club’s sporting director, Michael Edwards, has previously emphasized the need to balance squad depth with financial prudence. Liverpool’s financial statements for the 2025-26 season revealed a net loss of £64 million, partly due to the costs associated with major transfers and wage bills. Retaining Mac Allister and Alisson could help mitigate the need for expensive replacements while maintaining competitive continuity.

Liverpool’s board is expected to address the players’ futures in the coming weeks. A formal offer for Mac Allister’s contract extension is reportedly under consideration, with the club aiming to secure his services beyond 2027. Alisson’s representatives have not yet commented on the manager’s remarks, but his long-term commitment to the club has been a recurring theme in previous negotiations.

The situation reflects broader challenges for English football clubs in retaining talent amid rising transfer market demands. Premier League rivals such as Manchester City and Arsenal have also prioritized keeping their star players, with reports indicating that Alisson’s value remains high despite his age. Mac Allister’s market value, estimated at £60 million by Transfermarkt as of July 2026, further complicates the decision-making process.

Iraola’s emphasis on stability aligns with Liverpool’s recent approach to squad management. The club’s 2025 summer window saw the departure of several veteran players, including Jordan Henderson and Fabinho, while investing in younger talent like Harvey Elliott and Curtis Jones. Retaining Mac Allister and Alisson could signal a shift toward a more balanced strategy, combining experience with emerging talent.

Fans have responded positively to the reports, with social media campaigns urging the club to prioritize retaining “the backbone of the team.” However, some supporters have called for transparency in negotiations, citing concerns about the club’s financial health. A petition launched on Change.org earlier this year, calling for greater accountability in transfer dealings, has gained over 50,000 signatures, though its impact on decision-making remains unclear.

As the club moves forward, the outcome of these discussions will shape Liverpool’s trajectory in the coming seasons. Iraola’s focus on retaining key players underscores the importance of continuity in a league where competition is fierce and expectations are high. Whether Mac Allister and Alisson remain at Anfield will depend on the club’s ability to meet their contractual and financial demands while navigating the evolving landscape of English football.