Ryan Gravenberch Misses Liverpool Clash to Welcome His First Child

Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch missed Sunday’s Community Shield match because he celebrated the birth of his child, said manager Arne Slot.

WHY GRAVENBERCH MISSED OUT

Slot spoke before Liverpool‘s Community Shield final against Crystal Palace. He explained Gravenberch wasn’t in the squad because he became a father the night before. The coach said the midfielder’s absence was for personal reasons, not injury. He explained, “Ryan Gravenberch is out just because last night he became a dad.”

GRAVENBERCH AND LIVERPOOL’S SEASON SO FAR

Gravenberch has been an important part of Liverpool’s midfield since joining from Bayern Munich in 2023. Last season, he played 33 Premier League matches, scored four goals, and assisted seven. Notably, Liverpool finished 1st last year with a strong performance, securing 84 points to win the Premier League. The team wants to build on that strong campaign under new manager Slot, who replaced Jurgen Klopp last summer.

LOOKING AHEAD

Liverpool hopes to have Gravenberch back soon as the regular Premier League season opens against Bournemouth next Saturday. Bournemouth finished 9th last season and wants to start strong. Liverpool remains just behind Manchester City as title favorites and wants all key players available. With Gravenberch’s first child born, the Dutch midfielder is expected to return to training and help Liverpool aim for silverware in 2025/26.