Liverpool fans were left concerned after Ryan Gravenberch was substituted at half-time during the Netherlands’ 4–0 win over Finland. However, manager Ronald Koeman has since reassured supporters that the midfielder’s issue is only a minor one.
The 22-year-old started alongside Frenkie de Jong in central midfield but did not return for the second half, sparking fears of a potential injury setback. Speaking to NOS (via voetbalzone.nl), Koeman revealed:
“Ryan mentioned he felt a slight hamstring discomfort, so we decided not to take any chances.”
Koeman clarified that the decision to replace Gravenberch with Tijjani Reijnders was precautionary and not tactical, explaining that he simply wanted to manage the Liverpool man’s workload. That will come as a relief to Reds supporters, especially given Gravenberch’s impressive form under Arne Slot this season.
Meanwhile, Mohamed Salah was rested for Egypt, and Liverpool will be hoping both players return fully fit ahead of a crucial run of fixtures — starting with the clash against Manchester United.
Slot has already been managing several key players carefully amid a busy schedule, and Gravenberch’s consistency has made him one of the first names on the team sheet.
On a positive note, the Netherlands’ medical team appear to have acted early, and their cautious approach could turn out to be the best news Liverpool receive this week.
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