Mac Allister backs Salah: Liverpool’s bid to reclaim European glory in Istanbul
9 March 2026
Ahead of the Istanbul clash: Mac Allister’s pep talk
With the decisive Champions League tie looming, Salah’s Liverpool teammates rally around the Egyptian star, expressing confidence that he can reclaim his best form. Alexis Mac Allister, Liverpool's midfield maestro, said Salah understands the steps required to regain his peak numbers this season, which he described as complex for everyone.
That assessment came during Mac Allister's remarks at the press conference ahead of the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 against Galatasaray in Istanbul, scheduled for Tuesday.
“Mohamed Salah? The season has been tough and complex for all of us, and it is up to us as a team to help him regain his best form,” Mac Allister said.
“The responsibility lies with everyone to bring out the best in him; we achieved that last season, but we've faced difficulties this season,” he added.
“Salah knows well what he must do to improve his numbers; he is an exceptional and wonderful player,” Mac Allister continued.
He noted that the group is still adapting to changes and new players, saying: “We are still learning how to play together with the new additions, and we're taking it step by step.”
Mac Allister wrapped up with a bold target: “My dream now is to win the Champions League, a very important goal for this season, and the team is fully capable of achieving it.”
Liverpool finished the group stage in third place with 18 points and now aim to beat Galatasaray to continue their continental journey.
What’s at stake and the road ahead
As the knockout clash approaches, Liverpool’s approach is built on collective resolve and the belief that Salah can rediscover his best form with help from the squad.
And if Salah finds the net in Istanbul, the Kop will celebrate so loudly that even the crossbar might file a complaint for noise.
Punchline 1: Salah's shots are so on target the net doesn’t bother guessing where it will end.
Punchline 2: If this season were a sniper drill, Salah would deliver the headshot—swift, clean, and utterly ruthless.
