Ryan Gravenberch
March 2026
Nagelsmann said Gravenberch found it hard to adapt from being a regular starter to a bench role, and struggled to impact games in short substitute spells. Nagelsmann described the psychological and tactical challenge of accepting a lower squad ranking at an elite club, saying some players cannot quickly develop the rhythm needed to change matches in the final 20 minutes.
Dominik Szoboszlai (Liverpool)
November 2025
Despite Liverpool’s uneven results, Szoboszlai has started every league and UCL match and emerged as a midfield constant. Club intent: initiate negotiations on an improved long-term contract; Ryan Gravenberch also flagged for extension planning. Arne Slot’s usage underscores tactical centrality—press engine, ball progression, set-piece threat—while summer marquee Florian Wirtz settles. Early engagement secures prime years and stabilizes core ahead of 2026 planning.
Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool)
October 2025
Liverpool await scans after Gravenberch was withdrawn at halftime for the Netherlands with hamstring discomfort in a World Cup qualifier against Finland. Ronald Koeman called it precautionary. With Liverpool on a three-match skid and Manchester United up next, his availability is pivotal.
Slot has elevated Gravenberch through trust and minutes. If tests show only tightness he could be cleared for United. Any strain risks a short layoff, disrupting Liverpool’s control in midfield during a crucial domestic stretch.
Arne Slot (Liverpool)
September 2025
Liverpool boss Arne Slot confirmed Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, Ryan Gravenberch, and Dominik Szoboszlai will all be rested for the Carabao Cup clash with Southampton after a demanding run of fixtures. After making changes in the Merseyside derby win over Everton, Slot stressed rotation is vital to sustain momentum across competitions. The absence of key starters opens opportunities for fringe players to prove themselves as Liverpool’s depth faces a fresh test midweek.
