Ryan Gravenberch: The Perfect Gift for Arne Slot’s Liverpool
Since Arne Slot took over at Liverpool, several players have thrived under his management, but one name stands out: Ryan Gravenberch. The Dutch midfielder, brought in during Jürgen Klopp’s final season for £34 million from Bayern Munich, has blossomed into a pivotal figure in Slot’s system. His transition from a creative player to a more defensively capable No. 6 has been nothing short of remarkable. This transformation is a testament to both the player’s adaptability and Slot’s managerial acumen.
Gravenberch’s New Role in Liverpool’s Midfield
Gravenberch’s newfound form has sparked comparisons with former Liverpool favourite Gini Wijnaldum. Yet, as Liverpool legend Mark Lawrenson told SportingCasting, Gravenberch offers even more than his predecessor. Lawrenson stated:
“I don’t just think Ryan Gravenberch is Liverpool’s Gini Wijnaldum replacement – I think he’s better than him.”
This is high praise, especially considering Wijnaldum’s importance during Klopp’s reign. According to Lawrenson:
“Wijnaldum was a really good player for Liverpool under Jürgen Klopp, but I think Gravenberch has got a little burst of pace and more attacking qualities that Gini didn’t have.”
It’s these added attributes that have made Gravenberch such a valuable asset for Slot. His ability to cover ground defensively while also contributing offensively allows him to seamlessly link up with fellow midfielders Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai. Lawrenson continued:
“He looks a really classy player at the moment and compliments Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai really well. All three midfielders have started the campaign very promisingly, which is great to see. I don’t think there’s a better midfield trio in the league at the moment.”
Midfield Overhaul Paying Dividends
The reshaping of Liverpool’s midfield has been central to their resurgence this season. With veterans like Jordan Henderson and James Milner departing, it was clear that reinforcements were necessary. Jörg Schmadtke, who worked closely with Klopp before his departure, was responsible for orchestrating a major rebuild. His signings, which included Gravenberch, Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, and Wataru Endo, have given Liverpool a fresh, dynamic look in the middle of the park.
Schmadtke himself admitted his role was crucial during this transition. Speaking to Die Zeit, he explained:
“Unlike the clubs in Germany, in Liverpool I was responsible for the transfers, but I mainly worked with Jurgen. I stopped everyone from knocking on his door.”
Though Klopp is no longer at the helm, Schmadtke’s decisions have continued to benefit his successor. Gravenberch, in particular, seems to be thriving under Slot, who, according to Lawrenson, has “pushed the correct buttons to get him going this season.” Whether or not Slot’s prior knowledge of Gravenberch from their time in Dutch football has played a role, there’s no denying the Dutchman has been a revelation.
Arne Slot’s Perfect System
Slot’s influence on this Liverpool side has been transformative. His tactical setup and ability to get the best out of players like Gravenberch, who had struggled for consistency at Bayern, has been key to the Reds’ strong start. The balance he has found in midfield, with the dynamism of Szoboszlai, the versatility of Mac Allister, and Gravenberch’s all-around game, suggests Liverpool may have one of the most formidable midfield trios in the Premier League this season.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
Watching Gravenberch evolve under Arne Slot has been a joy. It’s not just his individual brilliance, but how he complements the other two midfielders that makes this transformation so impressive. Lawrenson’s comparison with Wijnaldum is understandable, but Gravenberch brings something different, perhaps more suited to Slot’s style.
Liverpool supporters have always loved a versatile midfielder, and Gravenberch fits that mould perfectly. His ability to win back possession, break forward with pace, and link up play has given the team a new dimension. Slot has clearly figured out how to unlock Gravenberch’s potential, and it feels like there’s even more to come from him.
Moreover, the blend of youth and experience in the current midfield setup is reminiscent of past Liverpool sides under Klopp, but with a fresh twist. There’s energy, creativity, and resilience in equal measure, and it’s exciting to think about what this group can achieve as they continue to gel.
Gravenberch’s £34 million price tag now looks like an absolute steal, especially given how quickly he’s adapted. Liverpool are on the rise again, and this midfield rebuild could be the catalyst for a new era of success under Arne Slot.
