Alexis Mac Allister Admits He Didn’t Rate Alisson at First — But Now Calls Him “The Best” (BBQ Pending)

Liverpool, UK — Football has a way of turning doubters into believers, and Alexis Mac Allister has just proved it in hilarious fashion. The Argentine midfielder, who joined Liverpool from Brighton last summer, has openly admitted he “didn’t really rate” Alisson Becker before becoming his teammate — only to now declare the Brazilian one of the very best goalkeepers in the world.

And in true football banter style, Mac Allister capped his confession with a cheeky jab about a long-promised barbecue.

“Didn’t Understand the Hype”

Speaking to reporters this week, Mac Allister was disarmingly honest when asked about his impressions of Liverpool’s No. 1.

“I tell him, ‘You know, when I was at Brighton, I didn’t understand what the hype was all about. I didn’t really rate you,’” Mac Allister recalled with a laugh.

Then, with a shake of his head, he added: “Now, damn! I have to admit, you’re the best. Well, ok… you, Dibu [Martínez], and Courtois.”

The midfielder’s candidness drew laughter from the press, and fans online immediately latched onto the quote, sharing it across social media platforms with plenty of emojis and memes.

From Brighton Skeptic to Believer at Anfield

For Mac Allister, the transformation from skeptic to believer didn’t take long once he settled into life at Liverpool. Training daily with Alisson gave him a first-hand view of the Brazilian’s brilliance — his lightning reactions, commanding presence, and uncanny ability to pull off saves no one else could.

“Sometimes in training, I just stand there in shock,” Mac Allister admitted. “You think it’s a goal, and then he’s there, stretching, flying, stopping everything. You can’t understand it until you see it every day.”

At Brighton, Mac Allister had respected Alisson’s reputation but, by his own admission, didn’t fully buy into the hype. But now, having witnessed his keeper’s impact up close, he concedes the plaudits were more than deserved.

The BBQ Clause

Of course, Mac Allister’s comments weren’t all serious praise. He also slipped in a playful reminder of a promise Alisson has yet to keep.

“He hasn’t invited me to his house for a BBQ yet,” the midfielder joked. “So, he has this season ahead to keep to his word.”

It’s not the first time Liverpool players have teased each other about get-togethers at Alisson’s home. Known for his warmth and hospitality, the goalkeeper has hosted teammates in the past, often manning the grill himself. Fans immediately jumped on Mac Allister’s comments, imagining the South American-heavy Liverpool squad gathered around for a Brazilian-style feast.

“Forget the clean sheets — get the BBQ sorted, Ali!” one fan tweeted.

Fans React With Laughter

The exchange sparked an avalanche of online reaction, with fans amused by Mac Allister’s honesty and his cheeky BBQ demand.

“This is why I love Mac Allister 😂. No filter, just pure honesty.”
“Alisson better fire up that grill, or we riot 🍖🔥.”
“Brighton Mac didn’t rate him, Liverpool Mac calls him the best. That’s called character development 😅.”

Even some rival fans couldn’t resist commenting, noting how rare it is for a player to admit being wrong so publicly — and so humorously.

Alisson’s Standing Among the Best

Beyond the lighthearted banter, Mac Allister’s words underscore Alisson’s place among football’s elite goalkeepers. Since joining Liverpool in 2018, the Brazilian has been a cornerstone of Jürgen Klopp’s team, delivering Champions League and Premier League titles while producing countless highlight-reel saves.

The comparison to Argentina’s Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez and Real Madrid’s Thibaut Courtois is telling. Together, the trio represent the pinnacle of modern goalkeeping — giants who have defined success for both club and country.

For Mac Allister, putting Alisson in that category is both praise and acknowledgment of how his perspective has changed.

Building Bonds at Anfield

Mac Allister’s adjustment to life at Liverpool has been smooth, aided by the camaraderie within the squad. His humor and humility have quickly made him a fan favorite, while his performances in midfield have showcased his intelligence and composure.

His candid remarks about Alisson highlight not just respect but also the kind of dressing-room banter that strengthens team chemistry. Liverpool’s South American contingent — including Alisson, Luis Díaz, Darwin Núñez, and others — have formed a close-knit group, often blending cultures, languages, and plenty of jokes.

Conclusion

Alexis Mac Allister may not have rated Alisson Becker during his Brighton days, but life at Liverpool has changed his mind in emphatic fashion. From skeptic to admirer, he now calls the Brazilian one of the best in the world — with a playful reminder that a BBQ invite is still outstanding.

For fans, the comments offered not only a laugh but also a reminder of the joy that comes when world-class athletes let their guard down and share a little honesty.

And for Alisson? Well, the next Liverpool team gathering might just need a bigger grill.