Alexis Mac Allister had a hearty welcome upon his return to Brighton, and Roberto De Zerbi made sure the supporters were happy to see him.
Not every player is welcomed back to their old residences. In actuality, many encounter antagonism.
Fortunately for Mac Allister, his former manager gave him a standing ovation and a loving embrace.
At the conclusion of Liverpool’s 2-2 Premier League draw with Brighton, De Zerbi went looking for Mac Allister.
The Liverpool midfielder clapped the crowd and chatted with his former coach as he circled the field.
It was touching to see De Zerbi pointing with admiration towards Mac Allister, showing how close the midfielder is to his old team.
The midfielder had a four-year contract with Brighton, playing the first two years primarily on loan in Argentina before starting to get regular playing time in his final two seasons.
He received a hero’s welcome when his return to the south coast after winning the World Cup.
Although he played better in the second half of the match on Sunday, the Argentine wasn’t at his best and it is becoming evident that he won’t be Liverpool’s long-term No. 6 option.
He is capable of performing in home games, but it is clear that his skills are better suited for a more advanced position where risks are more readily accepted.
For a week, Mac Allister experienced plenty of family reunions. On Thursday, he competed against his brother Kevin when Liverpool defeated Union SG in the Europa League.
There were no flying tackles between the brothers throughout their 41 minutes on the Anfield field together.
