Liverpool’s summer break is well underway, with 11 players still on vacation after fulfilling their international duties. While the team’s pre-season squad, led by coach Arne Slot, has been training with academy players for nearly three weeks, key senior figures are taking some well-deserved time off.
Among those yet to return are Alisson and Diogo Jota, who will be back soon, followed by Ibrahima Konate, Virgil van Dijk, Ryan Gravenberch, Cody Gakpo, Alexis Mac Allister, Luis Diaz, Darwin Nunez, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Joe Gomez in August. While the focus at the AXA Training Centre has been on training and a trip to the US, the players still on break have been making the most of their downtime.
One such player is Alexis Mac Allister, who was honored by his boyhood club, Argentinos Juniors, after winning the Copa America with Argentina. Mac Allister and his international teammate Nicola Gonzalez were given a hero’s welcome and received personalized club shirts and plaques commemorating their success. It was quite the homecoming party for Mac Allister.
Meanwhile, Mac Allister’s teammate Diogo Jota has been enjoying quality family time with his wife and two sons. However, he couldn’t resist the lure of Esports action and traveled to Saudi Arabia for the Esports World Cup. Jota expressed his excitement about being part of the inaugural event, showcasing his enthusiasm for both football and gaming.
Luis Diaz, who experienced heartbreak in the Copa America final, wasted no time getting back on the pitch. He traveled to his national compatriot Daniel Munoz’s home village in Amalfi, Colombia. Excited fans greeted them before they took to a local football pitch. Diaz, wearing Liverpool’s away kit from last season, scored three goals during the friendly match. The local community appreciated his presence, highlighting the positive impact footballers can have on their communities.
Cody Gakpo, on the other hand, has been enjoying quality time with his young family, likely seeking out the sun in Europe. During his vacation, he coincidentally met Monaco and Switzerland striker Breel Embolo.
Virgil van Dijk, the team’s captain, has been busy rubbing shoulders with celebrities. He attended the UK launch of Dre and Snoop’s ‘Gin & Juice,’ accompanied by his wife. Van Dijk had the opportunity to take pictures with LeBron James, Snoop Dogg, and Dr. Dre. He also witnessed a surprise performance by Eminem. It seems that even during his break, Van Dijk knows how to make the most of his time.
Liverpool’s internationals who reached the semi-final or final of either the Copa America or the Euros are due to report back on August 5, less than two weeks before the start of the league. Until then, they are enjoying their well-deserved time off, soaking up the sun and spending quality time with their families. Soon enough, though, they will be back at Kirkby, ready to kick off another exciting season.