Liverpool’s injury woes continue to pile up at the worst possible time. The latest setback involves Ryan Gravenberch, who has become the newest addition to The Reds’ growing injury list just days before their highly anticipated Premier League showdown against Manchester United at Anfield this weekend.
Gravenberch Suffers Hamstring Issue on International Duty
The Dutch midfielder was forced off during the first half of the Netherlands’ World Cup 2026 Qualifiers against Finland on Sunday night (October 12, 2025). Gravenberch, who started the game in Ronald Koeman’s midfield, was substituted at the 46th minute for Tijjani Reijnders after complaining of tightness in his hamstring.
“Ryan told us he felt a bit of tension in his hamstring. We didn’t want to take any risks, so we decided to replace him immediately,” explained Netherlands head coach Ronald Koeman after the match.
Despite the scare, Gravenberch later assured Liverpool fans that the injury was nothing serious.
“It’s just a fitness issue, nothing major,” said the 23-year-old midfielder. “The season is still long, and this was just a precautionary move. I’m fine and hopeful to be back soon.”
Liverpool Enter a Critical Period Under Pressure
For Liverpool boss Arne Slot, the timing of this setback couldn’t be worse. The defending Premier League champions are going through a rough patch, having suffered three consecutive defeats across all competitions—a run that marks their worst form in two years.
As pressure mounts on Slot to turn things around, losing one of his most consistent midfielders only complicates matters further. Since the start of the 2025/26 season, Gravenberch has been one of Liverpool’s standout performers, earning praise for his composure, creativity, and ball control. Many pundits even consider his displays among the best in the Premier League’s midfield ranks so far this season.
Gravenberch’s availability could play a crucial role in Liverpool’s attempt to bounce back when they face arch-rivals Manchester United in the eighth week of the Premier League on Sunday night (October 19, 2025) at Anfield.
Defensive Crisis Deepens
Unfortunately for Arne Slot, Gravenberch’s setback is just one piece of bad news. Liverpool are currently facing a full-blown defensive crisis.
Centre-back Ibrahima Konaté remains doubtful after suffering a thigh injury during their defeat to Chelsea earlier this month. The French defender was even sent home early from international duty to recover. While there’s a glimmer of hope he might return in time for the United game, there’s still no official confirmation.
If Konaté fails to recover, Slot will have to rely solely on Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez as his only two fit senior centre-backs. The situation is further complicated by Giovanni Leoni’s long-term injury, which continues to sideline the young defender for several months.
Midfield and Goalkeeper Problems Mount
In addition to defensive issues, Slot may also be forced to make adjustments in midfield. Wataru Endo, the team’s primary defensive midfielder, was withdrawn from Japan’s national team setup due to an undisclosed injury, casting further doubts over Liverpool’s midfield depth.
To make matters worse, goalkeeper Alisson Becker remains sidelined with a hamstring injury. Reports suggest that the Brazilian shot-stopper is not expected to return until mid-November, leaving Caoimhín Kelleher to continue deputizing in goal.
Anfield Awaits a Defining Moment
With a lengthy injury list, poor form, and immense pressure from fans and media, Arne Slot is now facing one of the biggest challenges since taking charge at Anfield. The upcoming clash against Manchester United is more than just another Premier League fixture — it’s a test of Liverpool’s character, resilience, and tactical adaptability.
A win could reignite their campaign and restore confidence in the squad. But a defeat, especially at home against their biggest rival, could plunge the reigning champions into a full-blown crisis.
For now, all eyes will be on the medical updates surrounding Gravenberch, Konaté, and Alisson, as Liverpool prepare for a make-or-break battle under the lights at Anfield.
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