Gravenberch left disappointed by Heitinga’s Liverpool exit amid Dutch transition

Gravenberch voices admiration as Heitinga departs Liverpool

Ryan Gravenberch has expressed his disappointment following the departure of assistant coach John Heitinga, a figure who played a quietly influential role behind the scenes at Liverpool during a season of domestic triumph.

While Liverpool’s 2024-25 campaign will be remembered for its crowning achievement — a record-equalling 20th league title — it was also a season marked by cohesion, tactical clarity and the seamless integration of new leadership under Arne Slot. But amidst the celebrations, change is already afoot, and Heitinga’s exit has left a noticeable mark on at least one member of the squad.

Speaking to Algemeen Dagblad, Gravenberch admitted, “Slot is a really good coach, with a great eye for detail. I also talked a lot with John Heitinga about my game this season, watched a lot of footage too. Personally, I’m a bit disappointed he’s going to Ajax, but I think they’re getting a very good coach.”

Mentorship built on familiarity and trust

The connection between Heitinga and Gravenberch runs deeper than most typical player-coach relationships. The pair first crossed paths during their time at Ajax, and that existing rapport was carried into the dressing room at Anfield.

Gravenberch has previously spoken of Heitinga’s role as a mentor. In an earlier interview with The Athletic, he said: “John Heitinga has been a really big help. At the club, you have mentors and he is my mentor. I knew him from my time at Ajax, so he also knew me well. I watched clips with him, I had conversations with him about the position.”

For Gravenberch, who arrived at Liverpool from Bayern Munich last year seeking rhythm and stability, Heitinga provided both. In a season where the Dutchman made significant progress and contributed meaningfully to Liverpool’s title run, it is no surprise he is reluctant to see his mentor go.

Slot begins reshaping backroom team

Heitinga’s return to Ajax as head coach is not entirely unexpected, given his ambition and growing reputation in coaching circles. His departure opens the door for a new addition to Arne Slot’s backroom team, and several candidates have been linked.

One name under consideration is Dirk Kuyt, the former Liverpool forward who remains a popular figure at Anfield. However, the leading candidate appears to be Marino Pusic, who previously served under Slot at Feyenoord and has just left his role at Shakhtar Donetsk. Should Pusic arrive, he would likely slot in as the assistant alongside Sipke Hulshoff, continuing the Dutch influence within the club’s structure.

Continuity the key amid changes

Liverpool’s long-term planning and clarity in structure mean transitions like this are unlikely to destabilise the current trajectory. With Arne Slot now firmly in charge and the squad unified in purpose, the club remains well-positioned to build on last season’s domestic success.

Still, for Gravenberch, the personal loss of Heitinga will linger. His progress over the past year has been significant, and much of that can be traced to the individual care and attention offered by the former Dutch international.