Liverpool supporters may have been alarmed last week upon learning that Ryan Gravenberch had withdrawn from the Netherlands squad ahead of their UEFA Nations League quarter-final against Spain.
The midfielder has been a key figure for the Reds this season, ranking third in total minutes played under Arne Slot (3,516) and playing a crucial role in their pursuit of a 20th league title.
After a tough period that saw Liverpool crash out of the Champions League, lose the Carabao Cup final, and face uncertainty over Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future, fans could certainly use some positive news as they approach the crucial final stretch of the 2024/25 season.
Fortunately, Lewis Steele has delivered an encouraging update in his latest Liverpool Confidential report for the Daily Mail.
Gravenberch Takes a Well-Deserved Break
The journalist confirmed that the 22-year-old’s withdrawal from international duty was purely precautionary, and he is expected to be fit for the Merseyside derby next Wednesday.
To further emphasize his well-being, Gravenberch even took a short holiday during the break, allowing himself some much-needed rest after an intense season in which his body has endured significant strain.
Ready for the Title Push
Since Slot’s arrival last summer, Gravenberch has been a standout performer, but the heavy workload seemed to be catching up with him in recent matches, affecting his impact on the pitch.
Prior to the international break, the Dutchman started Liverpool’s last nine games, logging 762 minutes over a 32-day span that included physically demanding clashes against Manchester City, Aston Villa, and Paris Saint-Germain.
While Liverpool’s FA Cup exit to Plymouth Argyle was disappointing, the unexpected break has given the squad extra time to prepare for the upcoming Everton match—a crucial fixture in their bid to regain momentum after setbacks in other competitions.
The additional rest days should help ensure Gravenberch is in peak condition for the Merseyside derby. News of his well-earned downtime will surely be welcomed by Liverpool fans, who will be eager to see him back at his best as the team pushes for the Premier League title in the season’s final weeks.