Liverpool star could miss Man United clash with ‘minor issue’ | OneFootball

Liverpool Injury Update as Ryan Gravenberch Offers Clarity

Liverpool supporters held their breath when reports emerged from the Netherlands camp suggesting Ryan Gravenberch had suffered a “minor hamstring problem”. The midfielder, who has been ever-present under Arne Slot, was substituted at half-time during his nation’s 4-0 win over Finland.

Ronald Koeman, speaking to NOS after the match, made it clear he did not want to gamble on the 23-year-old. As relayed by Voetbal Zone, the national team boss said, “Ryan indicated he had some minor hamstring problems. Of course, we didn’t take any risks with that.”

Given Gravenberch’s importance to Liverpool, alarm was understandable. Slot has built much of his midfield structure around the Dutch international since arriving at Anfield in 2024. The timing of any setback would be problematic, particularly with key Premier League and Champions League fixtures on the horizon.

Photo: IMAGO

Gravenberch Eases Fears With His Own Injury Update

Fortunately for Liverpool fans, the player himself has moved quickly to calm the situation. Speaking to Voetbal Primeur, Gravenberch downplayed suggestions of a serious problem, offering reassurance that his withdrawal was more strategic than medical.

“It was partly fitness related. The season is long, so it was a precaution. I’m feeling good and I have the coach’s confidence.”

Those words will be music to Slot’s ears. The manager has shown total faith in the former Bayern Munich midfielder, starting him in every league and European match since his suspension against AFC Bournemouth in August. His form has warranted that trust, combining defensive control with increasing authority in possession.

Importance to Slot’s System

Gravenberch’s evolution into a consistent holding midfielder has been one of Liverpool’s quiet success stories. His ability to shield the back line while initiating quick transitions has added balance to a side previously reliant on improvisation in midfield.

Koeman’s decision to start him in successive World Cup qualifiers, including the win over Malta, reflects how highly he is regarded internationally. That dual workload, however, makes the club’s caution understandable.

Focus Now Turns to Club Recovery

With Gravenberch publicly confirming his fitness, attentions will now turn to Slot’s plans ahead of Liverpool’s return to domestic action. Even if available, there may be consideration given to rotation to protect his long-term availability.

Liverpool have been stung before by international injuries, and Slot will likely demand tighter communication between medical departments. Gravenberch may insist he feels fine, but Liverpool’s sports science team will assess whether his workload requires managing rather than dismissing the warning entirely.

Liverpool’s title defence relies on maintaining rhythm and stability. Keeping Gravenberch available is central to that aim. Fortunately, this latest scare appears to be just that, a scare rather than a setback.