Liverpool’s alteration was unnoticed, but what transpired in the 13th minute of Bournemouth’s triumph proved it.

Alexis MacAllister’s effect may be forgotten as part of Liverpool’s midfield move under Arne Slot.

Darwin Nunez dominated the headlines on a day when Liverpool received a lot of positive news. However, even before the Uruguayan scored a memorable goal, the Anfield audience sent out purrs of appreciation.

In the 13th minute, Luis Diaz’s header infield fell to Alexis Mac Allister, who swiveled and sent a half-volleyed pass between two Bournemouth players, sending Mohamed Salah through on goal.

The Cherries’ goalkeeper, Kepa Arrizabalaga, was able to deflect the Egyptian’s ultimate effort for a corner, but the buzz around the stadium remained in recognition of the beauty of the ball.

Salah had already begun his sprint before Mac Allister even fired the trigger, demonstrating not just the Argentina international’s awareness of his teammates, but also their confidence in his ability to perform.

Later in the game, a quick ball in a tight area allowed Dominik Szoboszlai to go into open midfield.

Of course, none of this is news to anybody who has seen Mac Allister overcome a rough start to his Liverpool career last season, exemplified by his eventually overturned red card during Bournemouth’s previous Anfield visit, to become one of the squad’s most significant members.

Mac Allister’s impact may be overlooked due to the focus on Ryan Gravenberch’s development as a dynamic defensive midfielder and Szoboszlai’s growing comfort as Liverpool’s new number 10.

During his tenure at Liverpool, the 25-year-old has played as a solo number six before being pushed forward by Wataru Endo.

Now playing alongside Gravenberch in a double pivot – a role he frequently shared with Moises Caicedo at Brighton – Mac Allister has the best of both worlds, able to push forward when feasible and show off his passing range while cheerfully getting his hands dirty.

Liverpool’s Champions League Special

Liverpool are aiming for their sixth European Cup. And our Liverpool Echo competition guide is the ideal companion to help Reds supporters navigate the new tournament format.

We look at the crucial variables for new manager Arne Slot as he attempts to write the next chapter in the club’s illustrious European history, as well as the players who can assist him do so.

We examine Liverpool’s league opponents, the competition’s top ten players, and all 36 teams vying for the championship.

And, of course, we go down memory lane to relive some of those magical European evenings.Order today for international shipping right here.

No Liverpool player has won more tackles in the first five Premier League games, stopped as many dribblers, or blocked as many opposition passes. In terms of creativity, only Salah, Diaz, and Szoboszlai have contributed to generating more opportunities from open play. And against Bournemouth, MacAllister may have a pass accuracy percentage of around 93%.

“I think the team is still in a period of transition, which is quite normal (as) Jurgen (Klopp) was here for a good few years,” said the Argentinean. “under example, some players have only ever played under Jurgen and have never had another coach.

“Arne Slot’s ideas are clear to the team and fans.”

“We’re all really delighted and optimistic about what lies ahead. We have a lot of games coming up, and there will be a lot of competition, which is what we want; this group is full of outstanding players, and we can apply Arne’s tactical ideas.”

The constancy with which Mac Allister, Gravenberch, and Szoboszlai have been selected in midfield has aided their developing understanding. While Slot has begun to rotate in other areas, the central trio has stayed intact, with Mac Allister playing every minute except for his substitution just after the hour in last weekend’s stunning home defeat to Nottingham Forest.

Minutes have been sparse for the other possibilities.Harvey Elliott had just seven before injuring his foot on international service, Endo has even less, and Tyler Morton is yet to make the matchday squad.

Read more on sportupdates.co.uk