Ryan Gravenberch injury adds to Liverpool's growing fitness concerns

The 23-year-old was replaced at half-time by Manchester City's Tijjani Reijnders after complaining of hamstring discomfort. Dutch boss Ronald Koeman confirmed the decision was precautionary, saying: "Ryan indicated he was experiencing some minor hamstring problems. Of course, we didn't take any risks with that."

Gravenberch, who has become a key figure in Liverpool's midfield since arriving from Bayern Munich in 2023, later eased fears over the severity of the issue. "It had a bit to do with fitness. The season is long, so it was a precaution," he said.

The Dutch international played the full 90 minutes in Thursday's 4–0 win over Malta and is expected to return to Liverpool's AXA Training Centre this week for further assessment. Slot will be hopeful the problem is minor, with the Reds already short of options in several areas.

Alisson Becker remains sidelined with a hamstring injury, Wataru Endo missed Japan's international fixtures due to an unspecified issue, and Ibrahima Konate was forced off during the recent defeat to Chelsea with a quad strain, ruling him out of France duty.

Liverpool are currently second in the Premier League on 15 points after seven games, one point behind leaders Arsenal, and face Manchester United at Anfield next Sunday in what is already shaping up to be a crucial fixture.

Slot's side have endured a difficult spell, suffering three consecutive defeats to Crystal Palace (2-1), Galatasaray (1-0) and Chelsea (2-1) before the international break, the worst run of the Dutchman's managerial career.

Gravenberch, who has featured in every match since serving a suspension on the opening weekend, will be a major doubt for that clash.

In brighter news for Liverpool, Cody Gakpo and Virgil van Dijk both found the net for the Netherlands against Finland, Van Dijk in the 17th minute and Gakpo in the 84th, a result that leaves Koeman's side top of their 2026 World Cup qualifying Group G and on course for next summer's tournament.

After facing United, Liverpool's demanding schedule continues with fixtures against Eintracht Frankfurt (Champions League, October 22), Brentford (October 25), Crystal Palace (Carabao Cup, October 29), Aston Villa (November 1), Real Madrid (Champions League, November 4), and Manchester City before the November international break.