Liverpool’s injury concerns are showing no signs of easing, with new analysis indicating that Ryan Gravenberch could be set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines following the ankle injury he sustained in the defeat to Manchester United.
The Dutch midfielder was forced off just after the hour mark at Anfield after twisting his ankle awkwardly during Sunday’s 2–0 loss. Arne Slot initially downplayed the severity, but new information from injury analyst Physio Scout has painted a far more worrying picture.
According to the report shared on X, Gravenberch’s mechanism of injury — an inversion and plantarflexion motion at the ankle — points toward a lateral ankle sprain. These injuries, if serious, can involve both the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) and the calcaneofibular ligament (CFL).
The analysis suggested that if any ligament damage is confirmed after scans, Gravenberch could be ruled out for at least six weeks, which would be a huge setback given his growing importance in the side.
Gravenberch Injury Raises Midfield Questions
Liverpool are already dealing with a number of fitness concerns, and this latest development only adds to Arne Slot’s growing list of problems ahead of a congested fixture list.
Should the early prognosis prove accurate, Gravenberch would likely miss key Premier League games against Brentford, Aston Villa and Manchester City, along with the Champions League clash against Real Madrid.
Slot confirmed after the match that Gravenberch had twisted his ankle and admitted the club would “have to wait and see” pending the results of medical imaging. The midfielder’s condition will be closely monitored in the coming days as Liverpool prepare for their next European test against Eintracht Frankfurt.
It is another untimely setback for the Reds, especially as the 22-year-old had been one of the few bright sparks during a disappointing loss to United. He won five duels and three tackles before being replaced, once again showcasing his energy and dynamism in midfield.
Slot Faces Another Midfield Balancing Act
Gravenberch’s influence on Liverpool’s midfield balance has grown significantly this season. His ability to carry the ball through the middle and link play between defence and attack has been key to Arne Slot’s system working smoothly.
Without him, Liverpool will need to rely on Curtis Jones, Alexis Mac Allister and Wataru Endo — players who each bring quality but lack the same combination of power and control that Gravenberch provides.
Slot will be desperate to avoid another long-term absence as his squad continues to battle fatigue and minor knocks across several positions. With crucial matches coming thick and fast, the timing of this injury could hardly be worse.
For now, Liverpool fans can only hope that the swelling and instability around the ankle are minimal. As Physio Scout warned, if ligament damage is confirmed, recovery could extend deep into the winter schedule — something both Slot and the supporters will be praying to avoid.