Liverpool fans might find themselves both amused and exasperated by Ekitike’s comment on Gravenberch’s Instagram post.
Hugo Ekitike left a cheeky comment on Ryan Gravenberch’s Instagram following Liverpool’s 6-0 victory over Qarabag on Wednesday.
With Giovanni Leoni, Joe Gomez (injured), and Ibrahima Konate (on compassionate leave) all unavailable, the Dutch midfielder was deployed as an emergency centre-back alongside fellow countryman Virgil van Dijk at Anfield. In the closing stages, with the result—and direct qualification for the Champions League round of 16—secured, 23-year-old Gravenberch was able to return to his usual midfield role as teenage defender Amara Nallo came on for some rare first-team minutes.
Ekitike pokes fun at Gravenberch
After the final whistle, Gravenberch posted on Instagram celebrating Liverpool finishing third in the group and avoiding a knockout round play-off, captioning a series of images simply “Top 8.” Ekitike replied humorously with “Guehi!! 😂,” referencing Liverpool’s failed attempt to sign the then-Crystal Palace defender last year before he joined Manchester City.
Gravenberch performed well, but concerns remain
Liverpool fans might be unsure whether to laugh or wince at Ekitike’s joke—it touches on the club’s long-standing struggle to secure the England international.
On the pitch, Gravenberch held his own as a makeshift centre-back, making a few key interceptions and showing calmness in possession. Yet, his temporary redeployment underscores the limited options Arne Slot has in central defense. The manager’s post-match comments suggest a new signing before Monday’s deadline is unlikely.
Liverpool’s defensive situation could have been very different had they acted sooner to sign Guehi last summer, rather than waiting until the final hours only to be blocked by Crystal Palace.
Slot has indicated that Konate might return against Newcastle on Saturday, though Gomez’s availability remains uncertain. Even with both back, LFC would still be thin at the heart of defence unless a surprise move materializes in the next few days.