Liverpool injury latest and return dates for Man Utd clashLiverpool return to Premier League action on Sunday when they host Manchester United at Anfield, with Arne Slot hoping to have a number of his injured players back

Liverpool Injury Latest and Return Dates for Man Utd Clash

Liverpool are gearing up for one of their biggest Premier League tests of the season as they prepare to face arch-rivals Manchester United at Anfield this Sunday. For Arne Slot, this fixture is not just about three points — it’s a chance for redemption after a difficult spell before the international break. The Reds endured a torrid run of form, suffering back-to-back defeats against Crystal Palace, Galatasaray, and Chelsea, leaving fans demanding a strong response.

However, injuries have not made things easy for Slot. Several key players have been sidelined in recent weeks, and the manager will be hoping for some much-needed fitness boosts ahead of this monumental clash. The international break has at least offered some time for recuperation, with a handful of players pushing hard to return to full fitness before Sunday.

Anfield has remained a fortress this season, with Liverpool winning all five of their home matches so far. That record gives the Reds a huge psychological edge over United, but the injury list will play a major role in determining how strong Slot’s starting lineup can be. Let’s take a closer look at the current situation in the treatment room and the latest return timelines.

Ryan Gravenberch

Dutch midfielder Ryan Gravenberch is one of the names Liverpool fans will be desperate to see back on the pitch. He featured briefly for the Netherlands in their 4–0 win over Finland but was withdrawn at half-time. Ronald Koeman later confirmed that the midfielder had been struggling with a minor hamstring issue. Gravenberch himself played down concerns, describing the substitution as a precaution. If all goes well, he should be available for the United game.
Potential return date: October 19 vs Manchester United (H).

Ibrahima Konaté

Central defender Ibrahima Konaté remains a major doubt. The Frenchman picked up a thigh issue before the international break and was forced off during the Chelsea game. Despite joining up with the France squad, he did not feature in either of their matches and has since returned to Merseyside for further assessment. Slot will make a late call on his availability, but early signs suggest that the medical staff may not want to risk him too soon.
Potential return date: Unknown.

Alisson Becker

Liverpool’s biggest concern is undoubtedly Alisson Becker. The Brazilian shot-stopper limped off during the Champions League defeat to Galatasaray, and early indications are not encouraging. Slot expressed doubt over his participation this weekend, admitting that Alisson’s recovery “could take weeks rather than days.” The 32-year-old was left out of Brazil’s international fixtures against South Korea and Japan, and Liverpool will be hoping that his absence does not stretch too far into November.
Potential return date: November.

Wataru Endo

Japanese midfielder Wataru Endo also missed international duty, with Japan officially confirming his absence from their matches against Paraguay and Brazil due to injury. While the specifics have not been revealed, Liverpool’s staff remain cautiously optimistic. Endo has been undergoing light training and could feature on the bench against United if he passes his final fitness test. His availability would provide crucial depth in midfield, especially if Gravenberch is not fully fit.
Potential return date: October 19 vs Manchester United (H).

Giovanni Leoni

Unfortunately, there is no such optimism surrounding Giovanni Leoni. The young Italian centre-back suffered a devastating ACL rupture during the Carabao Cup clash against Southampton last month. The injury is expected to sideline him for up to a year. Slot was visibly emotional when discussing the setback, describing it as a cruel blow for a player who had shown immense promise. Liverpool will focus on supporting Leoni through his long recovery process.
Potential return date: Summer 2026.

What It Means for Arne Slot

For Arne Slot, managing these injuries will be a real test of his adaptability. The Dutch manager has already experimented with tactical tweaks this season, but the absences of key players like Alisson and Konaté could force him to make bold decisions. Caoimhin Kelleher is expected to start in goal if Alisson is ruled out, while Jarell Quansah may step in at centre-back once again.

The Stakes Couldn’t Be Higher

Liverpool and Manchester United fixtures are never short of drama, and this weekend’s clash promises to be no different. Beyond the rivalry, both teams are desperate for momentum. United have struggled for consistency, while Liverpool need to bounce back from their pre-break slump. With the Anfield crowd behind them, the Reds will aim to turn passion into points — even if they must do so without some of their biggest stars.

Injury Silver Linings

On a positive note, the international break may have arrived at just the right time. Players like Gravenberch and Endo have benefited from the rest, and Slot could welcome at least one of them back into the matchday squad. The manager also revealed that several squad members who were carrying minor knocks have fully recovered, giving him more options from the bench.

The Final Word

While the injury list remains a concern, Liverpool’s depth and home form still make them favourites heading into Sunday’s encounter. The Anfield faithful will expect a spirited display regardless of who starts, and Slot will know that a victory over United could completely shift the momentum of their season. For now, all eyes are on the treatment room — and the clock is ticking toward one of English football’s biggest showdowns.