Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has provided a detailed fitness update on Ryan Gravenberch, Ibrahima Konaté, and Alisson Becker ahead of Sunday’s highly anticipated showdown with Manchester United at Anfield. The news is a mix of positives and setbacks with some key players returning to action while others remain sidelined.
Gravenberch Fully Fit and Ready for Action
There had been concern earlier in the week when Ryan Gravenberch was substituted at half-time in the Netherlands’ 4-0 victory over Finland. Early reports hinted at a possible hamstring issue, but Dutch manager Ronald Koeman quickly assured that the substitution was precautionary.
Arne Slot confirmed the good news in his Friday press conference, saying that Gravenberch is completely fit and back in full training. His words brought relief to Reds fans who had feared another setback in midfield. Gravenberch has become an important figure for the Reds, offering both creativity and strength in central areas.
Slot also acknowledged the Dutch national team’s handling of the situation, praising their decision to share minutes between Gravenberch and Tijjani Reijnders. That balance ensured the midfielder stayed fresh while avoiding overexertion. Returning to Merseyside healthy and confident, Gravenberch is expected to be available for selection against Manchester United, giving Reds a crucial boost ahead of a game that often defines momentum early in the season.
His energy and ball-carrying ability will be key in breaking down a United side that likes to press high and counter quickly. Slot’s system thrives on midfielders who can transition from defense to attack, and Gravenberch fits that description perfectly.
Konaté Returns to Training After Minor Setback
Ibrahima Konaté’s situation has also improved after he withdrew from France’s squad before their fixture against Iceland due to a thigh issue. The 25-year-old defender suffered the minor injury during Liverpool’s 2-1 loss to Chelsea earlier this month, prompting his national team to send him back to Merseyside for assessment.
Slot provided a positive update on the Frenchman’s progress. “Ibou has come back to us, started the sessions again and is expected to train with us today,” the Liverpool boss told reporters. That means Konaté has returned to full team training and could be available for selection this weekend.
The timing of his return couldn’t be better. With Alisson still out and Reds seeking stability at the back, having Konaté fit again gives Slot more flexibility and reassurance. His presence next to Virgil van Dijk forms one of the most commanding defensive partnerships in the Premier League. Konaté’s pace and physicality are vital against Manchester United’s quick forwards, especially Benjamin Sesko, who thrive on exploiting space behind defenders.
Still, Slot is likely to be cautious with him. Liverpool have had their share of defensive injuries in recent seasons, and the medical team will want to be certain that Konaté is ready before he starts such a high-intensity match. If he’s declared fully fit, his inclusion could significantly strengthen Liverpool’s backline for the United game.
Alisson Becker Still Sidelined
While there was good news about Gravenberch and Konaté, the update on Alisson Becker was less encouraging. The Brazilian goalkeeper remains unavailable after picking up a hamstring injury during Liverpool’s Champions League clash with Galatasaray before the international break.
Slot confirmed that Alisson has not yet returned to team training, saying simply, “He is not training with us, so he is out.” When asked about a possible return date, he declined to give specifics, explaining that it’s hard to predict how recovery will progress in the final phase of rehabilitation. “The end phase of rehab can always give you positives or negatives, but he will not play on the weekend and also not next week,” Slot said.
That means Alisson will definitely miss Sunday’s match against Manchester United and at least one more game after that. It’s a frustrating situation for Liverpool, as the Brazilian’s leadership, composure, and ability to command his penalty area make him one of the best goalkeepers in world football.
In his absence, Giorgi Mamardashvili is expected to continue in goal. The Georgian international has impressed in recent appearances, showing sharp reflexes and confidence under pressure. Still, replacing a player of Alisson’s caliber is never easy, especially in such a crucial fixture. Slot has full faith in his backup, but the defense will need to stay compact and organized to protect him from United’s attacking threats.
What the Updates Mean for Sunday’s Clash
With Gravenberch fit and Konaté back in training, Liverpool will go into the Manchester United match with a stronger lineup than many feared. Gravenberch’s availability gives Slot flexibility in midfield, while Konaté’s potential inclusion solidifies the defense.
The return of these two players is timely as Liverpool seek to bounce back from recent disappointments. Slot’s team has been competitive but inconsistent, and he knows that fine margins decide games like this. Having a nearly full-strength squad helps him set up the kind of high-pressing, fluid system that has defined Liverpool’s success in recent years.
The absence of Alisson remains the major concern. His understanding with Van Dijk and Konaté is unmatched, and his calm presence often settles the defense in tense moments. Without him, Liverpool’s backline must communicate flawlessly to avoid mistakes. Mamardashvili has the skills to step up, but Anfield will hold its breath every time United get a sight of goal.
The Tactical Picture
From a tactical perspective, Gravenberch’s return allows Slot to restore his preferred midfield structure. The Dutchman can operate as a box-to-box presence, helping link defense with attack and relieving pressure on Alexis Mac Allister. With Dominik Szoboszlai providing creativity and Curtis Jones or Wataru Endo anchoring the midfield, Liverpool could have a balanced trio capable of controlling possession and pressing United effectively.
In defense, if Konaté is fit to start, he’ll likely partner Van Dijk in central defense, pushing Joe Gomez back to the right side or onto the bench. That setup gives Liverpool both height and recovery speed, which will be important against United’s counter-attacking play. If Konaté is deemed not ready, Gomez will continue to partner Van Dijk. Either way, Liverpool will need full focus and discipline against Ruben Amorin’s side, who have shown they can punish defensive lapses.
Liverpool’s Current Form and What’s at Stake
Liverpool come into this game with pressure mounting after a string of disappointing results before the break. Arne Slot admitted that losing three consecutive games across all competitions wasn’t acceptable for a club of Liverpool’s stature. “Results don’t lie,” he said earlier in the week, adding that the team needs to respond immediately.
Manchester United, too, have had a mixed start to their campaign and will be eager to claim a statement win at Anfield. The rivalry between these two clubs guarantees intensity, and Sunday’s game promises to deliver that in full. For Liverpool, the focus will be on returning to winning ways, rebuilding confidence, and showing resilience after recent setbacks.
The return of Gravenberch and Konaté gives them hope of doing exactly that. Both players add balance and control to a team that thrives on rhythm and pressing. Even without Alisson, Slot’s men have enough quality and depth to compete at the highest level.
Conclusion
Arne Slot’s latest fitness update ahead of the Manchester United game offers a blend of optimism and caution. The return of Ryan Gravenberch and Ibrahima Konaté brings much-needed stability, while Alisson’s absence remains the only major concern.
Liverpool will enter Sunday’s match knowing they have the talent and tactical structure to beat their fiercest rivals. The home crowd at Anfield will play its part as always, pushing the team to rediscover its spark. With some key figures back and others still recovering, Slot’s men must seize this moment to reset their momentum.
The stage is set for another classic Liverpool vs Manchester United encounter. Gravenberch’s creativity, Konaté’s defensive power, and the collective determination of Slot’s side will be crucial if the Reds are to reclaim their winning form. Even with Alisson out, the belief remains strong that Liverpool can rise to the occasion and Anfield will make sure of it.
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The Liverpool FC Times Team
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