Ryan Gravenberch Ruled Out for Liverpool’s Match Against Fenerbahce
Liverpool will head to Istanbul without midfielder Ryan Gravenberch due to a heel injury. He has not made the trip and will remain at the AXA Training Centre to receive treatment.
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Manager Andoni Iraola confirmed that the injury is being handled with care as they prepare for the Champions League clash with Fenerbahce. He stated, “It’s a day to day thing, it’s a heel injury, it’s about the pain. He’s had some discomfort; he was warming up against Arsenal and was not 100%.”
“Hopefully he can be available for the weekend, lovely, but we cannot say no.”
Impact of Gravenberch’s Absence
Gravenberch’s absence from a European away match is significant. He did not participate in the recent defeat to Arsenal, where he was sidelined as an unused substitute, leading to Trey Nyoni earning his first Premier League start in midfield. This decision adds to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Liverpool’s midfield setup.
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Iraola emphasized that the injury is primarily related to pain and does not pose a long-term threat. The club aims to manage the situation carefully to avoid worsening the issue.
Photo: IMAGO
Liverpool’s Upcoming Challenge Against Fenerbahce
This match will mark the first encounter between Liverpool and Fenerbahce, adding an interesting twist to the game. Liverpool has performed well in their last three Champions League games, securing maximum points against tough opponents.
They achieved a 2-1 victory over Atletico Madrid, followed by a 6-3 away win at LASK, and finished with a 4-3 win against Villarreal at Anfield. With nine points from their matches, they are among the few teams maintaining a perfect record.
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Iraola’s Strategy for the Weekend
Gravenberch’s injury offers Liverpool some flexibility in managing his recovery without pressure. There is no need to take risks. If he is fit for the weekend, that would be great; if not, the team will await his return. Currently, the situation is straightforward: Gravenberch is unavailable, treatment is ongoing, and Iraola must strategize for the midfield in Istanbul.
