A Boost That Changes the Mood at Anfield

Liverpool manager Arne Slot confirmed on Friday that Ryan Gravenberch has returned to full training after recovering from the injury that sidelined him for the last three matches.

“He trained with us today,” said the Dutch coach during the pre-match press conference ahead of Liverpool’s game against Aston Villa, scheduled for Saturday at 9:00 p.m.

The timing couldn’t be better: the midfielder is expected to be fit for the decisive Champions League encounter against Real Madrid, set for Tuesday, November 4, at Anfield.

A Return That Brings Hope

Liverpool are in a difficult stretch. The 0–3 defeat to Crystal Palace in the EFL Cup, which saw them eliminated from the domestic competition, increased the pressure on the squad and their new manager.

That’s why Gravenberch’s return feels like a breath of fresh air for the ‘Reds,’ who are desperate to find their rhythm before hosting Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid.

The Dutch midfielder, a crucial part of Liverpool’s midfield structure, could bring back the balance and creativity the team has been missing during their recent struggles.

Slot Still Dealing With Key Absences

Despite the positive news, Arne Slot won’t have his full squad available this weekend. The coach confirmed that Alexander Isak and Curtis Jones are “99% out” of the squad for Saturday’s Premier League match against Aston Villa.

Both players are racing against time to recover before Tuesday’s showdown with Real Madrid, though it remains unlikely they’ll be fully fit. Isak, in particular, has yet to find consistency since joining the club, but Slot would welcome his presence in attack for such an important match.

Countdown to a European Classic

All eyes now turn to Anfield, where Liverpool will face Real Madrid in a clash packed with tension and history.

With Gravenberch back in the mix, Slot regains a vital link in his midfield — and perhaps the spark needed to reignite Liverpool’s European dreams.