Alexis Mac Allister admits Arsenal envy and explains what is about to change at Liverpool

Mac Allister

Alexis Mac Allister admits he was envious watching Arsenal in the Champions League semi-finals this week - and expects a further evolution from Liverpool next season.

The Reds will return to Europe's elite competition next season as Premier League champions having romped to a 20th title ahead of the Gunners with four games to spare.

Mikel Arteta's side, though, progressed further in the Champions League before losing both legs of their last four clash against Paris Saint-Germain, who eliminated Liverpool on penalties in the round of 16 in March.

The French outfit will now face Inter in the final, who overcame Barcelona 4-3 in their second leg to win 7-6 on aggregate in an instant classic on Tuesday evening.

And Mac Allister believes Liverpool's domestic success this term can give them a greater platform to deliver in the Champions League next season.

"Definitely," said the Argentina international. "When you watch these games (the Champions League semi-finals) you want to be there.

"This year it wasn't for us in the Champions League but hopefully next year we can show that we want more and that we want to fight to win that title because of what it means to the club. Hopefully next year we are in that position."

Arsenal's difficult week continues on Sunday when they will give Liverpool a guard of honour ahead of the clash between the clubs at Anfield.

The Reds are 15 points clear of the Londoners, and while Mac Allister admits the job has been done regards the Premier League, Arne Slot'sside have a different incentive over the closing weeks.

Mac Allister

"After they lost in the Champions League they will try to beat us because it will mean something to them,"

“We are not thinking about records or breaking records. It's more about what we can do and what we can improve.”

"We don't have to prove anything but to show the work and that we deserve to be champions. It's going to be a nice one."

Mac Allister believes Slot was wise not to overly tinker with the playing style of the squad he inherited from Jurgen Klopp, but expects there to be greater change in the approach under the Dutchman next season.

Mac Allister

"I think there is difference with the ball and when we are in possession. I think we are more calm and try not to be as direct as we were before and be more patient.

"But the principal ideas are the same. It didn't change much. I think Arne was really smart with that because we have many players that were a long time under Jurgen and it's not easy to change that quick.

"Arne was really smart and I don't see many differences now, but I think in the future Arne will try to put more emphasis on what he wants.

"I think even though we won the Premier League we all know we can improve some things.

“My role changed quite a lot. Under Jurgen I played as a six in many games. As I always say, I want to be on the pitch, it doesn't matter where so I am happy with it."