Ryan Gravenberch is missing from Liverpool’s squad as they take on Crystal Palace in the Community Shield, and Arne Slot has revealed the reason why.
Football is back, and the Community Shield kicks off the calendar. Last year’s title winners in Liverpool take on FA Cup champions Crystal Palace in what will be a blockbuster fixture.
The Community Shield always produces great games, so fans will be hoping for another corker between the Reds and the Eagles.
The two sides are out, but there’s one notable omission, and that’s Ryan Gravenberch. Here’s why.
Liverpool v Athletic Club Bilbao - Pre-Season Friendly
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Why Ryan Gravenberch is missing for Liverpool
Gravenberch isn’t available for the Community Shield 2025 fixture against Crystal Palace because he became a father last night, confirms Slot. “Ryan became a dad last night,” he said.
The Dutchman will be a big miss for the Reds and was a pivotal reason for their successes last season. He won’t be there to potentially see Liverpool make history in the Community Shield.
Instead, Curtis Jones and Dominik Szoboszlai are in the pivot, with new signing Florian Wirtz just ahead of them.
Liverpool starting XI vs Crystal Palace
Despite Gravenberch’s absence, the Reds have a strong team out.
Confirmed Liverpool XI: Alisson; Frimpong, Van Dijk, Konate, Kerkez; Szoboszlai, Jones; Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo; Ekitike
Subs: Mamardashvili, Endo, Mac Allister, Chiesa, Elliott, Robertson, Nyoni, Doak, Ngumoha
Who will win the Community Shield 2025?