ANFIELD: Liverpool’s troubles deepened on Sunday after a 2–1 home defeat to arch-rivals Manchester United, with captain Virgil van Dijk urging unity amid growing pressure on manager Arne Slot, and midfielder Ryan Gravenberch suffering a fresh injury setback.
The Reds, who have now lost four consecutive matches across all competitions, looked short of rhythm and intensity at Anfield as Manchester United punished defensive lapses to secure a vital win.
The result leaves Liverpool mid-table and searching for answers in a season that has rapidly become a test of character for the new manager.
Speaking after the game, Arne Slot confirmed that Dutch midfielder Ryan Gravenberch twisted his ankle during the second half and had to be substituted in the 61st minute. His availability for Wednesday’s Champions League trip to Eintracht Frankfurt remains in doubt.
I took him off because he twisted his ankle, Slot told reporters. We’ll have to assess it tomorrow to know how bad it is. It’s a concern because we have three games in seven days, and that’s not a lot of time for players to recover.
The Netherlands international had been one of Liverpool’s brighter sparks in recent weeks, and his potential absence compounds the Reds’ injury worries as the schedule tightens.
Meanwhile, Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk came to Slot’s defence following criticism from supporters frustrated by the team’s poor form and uncertain direction.
We all know this isn’t good enough, Van Dijk said. But we’re fully behind the manager. He’s working hard with us to bring something new. It takes time, and we have to stick together through it.
Van Dijk admitted that losing at Anfield to a fierce rival hurt deeply but stressed that the dressing room remains united and focused on turning the season around.
The fans deserve better, he added. We’ll fight to put things right, starting from our next game.
Sunday’s defeat has amplified scrutiny on Slot’s tactical approach and squad management. Critics argue that Liverpool’s pressing game lacks intensity and that the team often looks disconnected between defence and attack.
However, insiders at the club insist the board continues to back the Dutchman’s long-term project.
Liverpool will need a quick response when they face Eintracht Frankfurt on Wednesday before hosting Newcastle United at the weekend two fixtures that could define the tone of their season.
For now, Slot faces the dual challenge of reigniting confidence and managing a growing injury list, while Van Dijk and the squad rally to steady the ship under rising pressure.
