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Alexis Mac Allister has credited Andoni Iraola with turning Liverpool's fortunes around, claiming that "something wasn't right" before the Spaniard arrived at Anfield. Iraola was poached from Bournemouth during the summer break to replace Arne Slot, who was axed after the Reds failed to defend their Premier League title last season. After a mixed start to his reign, Iraola has led Liverpool to five wins in their last six games in all competitions, including Tuesday's comeback triumph over Villarreal.
Mac Allister, who scored twice as the Reds battled back from two goals down to win 4-3 at Anfield, was quizzed on Iraola's impact in his post-match interview on Amazon Prime Video.
Speaking to presenter Gabby Logan, the midfielder said: "Last season something wasn't right in the group and this manager changed it, and that's really important. The way we play is quite different, I don't like to compare but I am really enjoying it.
"From the first day, I started seeing something. He's a nice guy and the coaching staff is too. We are going in the right direction but we need to work and put in everything. Hopefully we can win some trophies."
Mac Allister struggled for much of last season but has been one of Liverpool's best players under Iraola, scoring four goals in all competitions and performing well on a weekly basis.
Reflecting on his brace against Villarreal, which included a header and a close-range finish, he said: "I'm not tall but I love going in the box. I really like it. They know I like to attack the near post.
"I scored in the World Cup as well. It was a good header. The second goal, Rio [Ngumoha], was amazing. I talk with him about cutting it back on the floor.
"It's not something I really practice. My dad is a bit smaller than me but he was quite good in the air so maybe it's something I got from him."
Mac Allister also spoke about his contract situation, with his current deal expiring in the summer of 2028. Earlier this season, he made headlines by revealing that he was "very sad" about not being offered an extension.
"When I say what I said, it was more about my feelings," he said. "That's their decision and it's fine. I do my best and in the end, we'll see what happens."
The midfielder's two-goal contribution against Villarreal helped Liverpool to maintain their perfect record in the Champions League this season, having won each of their three games so far.
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