Arne Slot and Liverpool encountered a slight injury issue overnight when it emerged that one of their players missed a training session with his national team.
Currently, most of Liverpool’s starting lineup is away on international duty, including Alexis Mac Allister, who has joined the Argentina squad.
Late on Tuesday, journalist Gaston Edul reported on X that the 25-year-old missed a training session with the world champions as they prepare for upcoming matches against Chile and Colombia.
He posted (translated from Spanish): “Alexis Mac Allister missed training due to muscle fatigue, but it’s anticipated that he will be fit for the match against Chile and participate.”
So far, Slot has been fortunate with nearly a fully-fit squad to choose from as Liverpool’s head coach, with Curtis Jones being the only player sidelined at the start of the season.
However, the September international break and a more demanding fixture schedule over the next six weeks could test the team’s depth.
With the increasing demands on top-level footballers, muscle injuries have become more frequent.
Even if Mac Allister recovers in time for Argentina’s upcoming games, there will still be concerns about his return to Merseyside in optimal condition for Liverpool’s next match against Nottingham Forest in 10 days.
This autumn, Mac Allister, along with fellow South Americans Luis Diaz and Alisson Becker, and Japan’s Wataru Endo, will travel extensively during international breaks in October and November.
Darwin Nunez would also be making long-haul trips across the Atlantic if not for his recent suspension related to incidents at the Copa America in July.
Slot will be monitoring every match involving Liverpool players closely in the coming days, hoping that none sustain injuries that could affect their availability for the club in the upcoming weeks and months.