It isn't difficult to determine the moment Alexis Mac Allister realised it was time for a career change that would eventually lead to his arrival at Liverpool.
As Lionel Messi finally got his hands on the World Cup and thrust the shimmering silverware into the Doha air in December, Mac Allister had his first experience of a major honour having started the final victory over France.
Yes, there had been a role on loan in Boca Juniors winning the domestic crown in Argentina in 2020, although the midfielder had returned to his parent club Brighton long before the season was completed. There was also a second division title with first club Argentinos Juniors.
Events in Qatar, though, are what have truly given Mac Allister a taste for more. And the 24-year-old, who on Thursday penned a five-year contract at Liverpool, believes he is now in the right place to gain more trophies.
DONE DEAL: Liverpool sign Alexis Mac Allister as transfer plan turns to next targets
LIVE: Alexis Mac Allister signing reaction as Liverpool transfer plan turns to new targets
"Since I won the World Cup, I said that I want to win more trophies and I think that this club will help me to do that," he says. "That’s the aim and when you are in a big club like this one you have to win trophies. So, that’s what I want.
“Why do I feel Liverpool is the natural step? Because it's a big club. Since I arrived here, I can see how big this club is – the players we have, the staff, everyone. I’m really pleased and looking forward to playing for this club.
“It was a fantastic year for me – World Cup, what we achieved with Brighton – but now it’s time to think about Liverpool and try to be a better player and a better human being every day. It feels amazing. It’s a dream come true, it’s amazing to be here and I can’t wait to get started."
With Jurgen Klopp keen for Liverpool to complete the bulk of their main transfer business before the team reconvene for pre-season training next month, Mac Allister is similarly pleased the transfer has been completed and believes his three years of experience in the Premier League will aid his adaptation.
"It's good for me and the club (that the deal is sorted early)," says the midfielder. "I wanted to be in (from) the first day of pre-season, so it’s good that everything is done. I’m looking forward to meeting my team-mates.
"My first year at Brighton was very hard because of the language and culture, but now I know how everything works. Of course, it will take time but once I get used to the club and everything I think everything will be good."
Of Klopp, he says to liverpoolfc.com: "He looks like a very nice guy. You can see how the players respect him and of course he is one of the best managers in the world. So I'm really looking forward to working with him."
Mac Allister - who scored 20 goals in 112 appearances for Brighton - will have to wait a little while before stepping out in front of the Kop, with Liverpool not having any home friendlies this summer and requesting their first Premier League game of the new season is away as they complete the redeveloped Anfield Road stand.
He helped Brighton to two draws as a visitor in the last two seasons, and he says: “I’ve got very good memories at Anfield – but hopefully the ones coming will be even better.
“I played for Boca Juniors and I feel like Liverpool is that kind of team where the fans are supporting the whole game. I’m really looking forward to playing in front of our fans and showing what we can do.”
Mac Allister has impressed with his versatility in midfield throughout his career and believes he can perform no matter where he is asked by Klopp over the coming seasons.
"I've played almost in every position and I think the managers who have worked with me know that I can do it everywhere if they need me," he says. “As a player, I’m a player who tries to play as simple as possible, I try to help my team-mates defensively or attacking. That’s the most important thing and I’m a team player and I will try to bring that to this club.”
Mac Allister adds: "Winning trophies, that's the aim. It doesn't matter which one. Of course, every player wants to win the Champions League and the Premier League, and I will do my best to help the team and try to win every trophy.
"I'm sure this team will give everything to win trophies and make them happy. That's the most important thing. I hope they stay behind me and the team and I know they will do it. It's a pleasure to be here at this club and I will do my best every single day."
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