Liverpool injury update: Latest on Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister and more | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Fitness Concerns Deepen as Key Trio Face Recovery Races

Liverpool’s current run of mixed form has been compounded by a growing injury list, with several key players facing fitness tests ahead of their European clash with Eintracht Frankfurt. Arne Slot’s side are under pressure to respond following recent setbacks, but the status of Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, and Alisson Becker remains a pressing concern.

Gravenberch’s Ankle Worry Raises Selection Doubts

Ryan Gravenberch, who had only just returned from a hamstring issue, suffered a new setback during Liverpool’s weekend defeat to Manchester United. The Dutch midfielder twisted his ankle midway through the second half and required on-field treatment before being substituted in the 62nd minute.

Photo: IMAGO

Slot offered a measured update post-match, explaining: “I took him off because he twisted his ankle. We’ll have to wait and see how he is tomorrow, but we play again in two days.” The manager’s cautious tone suggests the medical team will take no risks, especially given the intensity of the upcoming fixture list.

Gravenberch’s availability for the Frankfurt trip remains uncertain, with the club expected to reassess him closer to the match. If he fails to recover in time, Liverpool could be without one of their most dynamic midfield options for a crucial Champions League tie.

Potential return date: 22 October, vs Frankfurt (A)

Mac Allister Battles Through Bruising Clash

Alexis Mac Allister’s resilience was on full display during the same fixture, as the Argentine required bandaging after being struck by teammate Virgil van Dijk in the build-up to Manchester United’s opening goal. Despite the incident, the midfielder managed to play through discomfort and is expected to be fit for selection against Frankfurt.

Mac Allister’s adaptability has been vital under Slot, frequently tasked with operating both in a deeper role and as a more progressive midfielder. His likely inclusion will come as a boost for Liverpool, particularly with several midfielders either injured or returning from fitness issues.

Potential return date: 22 October, vs Frankfurt (A)

Alisson’s Recovery Takes Longer Than Hoped

Liverpool’s goalkeeping situation remains a concern, with Alisson Becker still sidelined following the hamstring injury sustained against Galatasaray. The Brazilian shot-stopper has missed several fixtures and continues to work on his rehabilitation under the supervision of Liverpool’s medical staff.

Slot confirmed that Alisson has not yet resumed training, telling reporters before the United match: “Alisson is not training, he’s out. It’s difficult to say exactly when he’ll return, because the final phase of rehab can have positives and negatives. But he won’t play this weekend or next week.”

The Reds are expected to continue relying on Caoimhin Kelleher in goal for the next two matches, with hopes that Alisson could return for the Carabao Cup fixture against Crystal Palace at the end of the month.

Potential return date: 29 October, vs Crystal Palace (H)

Wider Squad Issues Add to Slot’s Challenge

Beyond the high-profile absences, Liverpool’s injury concerns extend further. Wataru Endo was omitted from Japan’s international squad as a precaution and was not involved against Manchester United. His availability for the upcoming fixtures remains uncertain, though reports suggest his issue is minor.

More seriously, young defender Giovanni Leoni faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines. The 18-year-old, who impressed on his first appearance at Anfield against Southampton, suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury following an awkward fall late in that match. Slot confirmed the severity of the problem, stating: “He tore his ACL, which means he will be out for around a year. It’s really tough for such a young player who had just started to make his mark.”

Leoni’s setback is a significant blow for both the player and the club’s long-term plans, particularly given his promising start in the senior setup.

Slot’s Balancing Act Continues

As Liverpool prepare for Frankfurt, Slot’s main task will be balancing recovery and rotation. The manager’s options are increasingly limited, yet his squad depth will be tested in the coming weeks with important fixtures across multiple competitions.

While the likely returns of Gravenberch and Mac Allister offer encouragement, the continued absence of Alisson underlines how stretched the squad has become. For Liverpool to regain rhythm and consistency, managing player workloads and ensuring timely recoveries will be vital in the short term.