Liverpool’s Ryan Gravenberch has emerged as a key player this season, showcasing his energy, technical ability, and incredible knack for recovering the ball.
As the Reds’ squad disperses for international duty, Gravenberch stands out. His performance against Manchester United was exceptional.
According to data from Sofascore, he took 61 touches, had a pass completion rate of 84%, won six ground duels and made four interceptions and two tackles.
But more than that, he just looked so slick. He looked like a player that has been putting in these types of displays for years consistently. That hasn’t been the case but he looks like a brand new manager.
Gravenberch credits Arne Slot for the confidence he’s playing with this season
“I’m just feeling good, if I’m honest,” answered the 22-year-0ld midfielder when asked by ESPN NL what has been the decisive change for him this season.
“Things are going well at the club and I just do my thing.
Ryan Gravenberch. Credit: Imago Images
Gravenberch credited Arne Slot for his decision to play him in the no.6 role and says the Dutch coach is giving him the confidence to express himself.
“He just gives me the confidence now, puts me in the starting line-up and it’s going well,” says Gravenberch.
“When playing again of course [it gives confidence], making minutes and for me in principle the trust is also added. I feel good about myself and it’s getting better over time.
“He’s a good trainer, he knows what he wants, he has a clear plan and so far we are executing it very well.”
Best case scenario: Liverpool turn into Gravenberch into one of the best holding midfielders in the world
Ryan Gravenberch. Credit: Imago Images
The worst case scenario is the Dutch midfielder doesn’t quite make the season-long standard to make the position on his own and Arne Slot finds a role for him as a no.8 and signs a more established no.6.
But either way, we are going to see the 22-year-old there for the rest of the season and based on what I’ve seen, I’m more than happy to see him get the time to settle into the team and make the position his own.
If he can manage that, Liverpool will have saved themselves tens of millions of pounds. Sounds like it’s worth a shot.
