Liverpool manager Arne Slot was clearly emotional during this morning’s pre-match press conference as he shared heartbreaking news about a crucial player. The player, who was set to play a key role in the upcoming game against Real Madrid, sustained a potentially career-ending injury during an international match. This adds to the series of setbacks for Slot, with the player now sidelined until next year.

Liverpool fans were left anxious after witnessing one of their players involved in a dangerous challenge during international duty on Tuesday night.

Alexis Mac Allister, who had recently recovered from a groin injury, played nearly the full match in Argentina’s victory over Peru, despite a late scare for Liverpool supporters in Buenos Aires.

Mac Allister’s Scare Against Peru
In the 88th minute, with Argentina leading 1-0, Mac Allister was fouled by Peruvian defender Carlos Zambrano, who was shown a yellow card by referee Wilmar Roldán. However, replays from TyC Sports revealed the tackle was high, late, and studs-up, potentially warranting a red card for Zambrano. Thankfully, Mac Allister emerged unscathed.

Earlier in the match, Zambrano had also sparked controversy by clashing with Lionel Messi, prompting the Argentine captain to angrily shout, “What are you doing, idiot?” according to TyC Sports.

Will Mac Allister Start for Liverpool on Sunday?

Fortunately for Arne Slot and Liverpool fans, it appears that Mac Allister avoided any serious injury from Zambrano’s reckless challenge. The former Brighton midfielder is expected to return to Merseyside in good condition after completing Argentina’s World Cup qualifiers.

However, with another long transatlantic journey and a busy fixture schedule ahead, there’s a possibility that Mac Allister could be rested for Sunday’s match against Southampton to manage his workload. Additionally, the 25-year-old is currently on four yellow cards in the Premier League, and picking up another in the match would rule him out of the crucial clash with Manchester City next week. This might influence the coach’s decision.

For now, Liverpool fans will hope Mac Allister returns to club duties without any injury issues from his international appearances.