Ryan Gravenberch credits Arne Slot for revival ahead of Real Madrid test
Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch has opened up about his development under Arne Slot and the growing confidence that has come with increased responsibility in the first team. As the Reds prepare to face Real Madrid in the Champions League, the Dutchman reflected on his journey, his family’s influence, and the importance of the manager’s belief in him.
Rediscovering form through confidence and trust
Gravenberch’s recent performances have drawn praise across Merseyside, with the 22-year-old looking increasingly at home in Liverpool’s midfield. A goalscoring return against Aston Villa at Anfield served as further evidence of his resurgence after a difficult spell last season.
Reflecting on what has changed, the midfielder credited a simple yet powerful influence: his father. “I listened to my dad more this season,” he said. “He always tells me to shoot more — and you can see what’s happened when I’ve done that.”
That advice has coincided with a new level of freedom in Slot’s system. The manager’s approach has encouraged Gravenberch to take more risks in possession, push further forward, and impose himself in attacking situations. “He gave me confidence,” Gravenberch said. “He gave me the chance to be a starting player again and show the world what I can do.”
Slot’s tactical impact on Gravenberch’s role
When Arne Slot arrived in the summer, questions surrounded how Liverpool’s midfield would adapt. With the Dutchman implementing a style built on precision, pressing and positional discipline, it required players to embrace tactical detail.
For Gravenberch, that transition has been transformative. Having operated in various roles throughout his career — from deep-lying playmaker to advanced midfielder — he has settled into a position that suits both his athleticism and intelligence.
“It wasn’t easy at first,” he admitted. “Playing deeper means more responsibility. But I’ve learned what the coach expects from me, and I’m improving every game.”
Slot’s influence has been more than tactical. Those close to Liverpool’s camp speak of his personable nature, clear communication, and ability to re-energise players who had lost confidence. For Gravenberch, who endured a stop-start first season at Anfield, that support has been crucial.
Madrid challenge and focus on progression
Liverpool’s upcoming clash with Real Madrid offers both a challenge and an opportunity. It is a chance for Slot’s developing side to test themselves against one of Europe’s elite, and for Gravenberch to measure his progress against a midfield featuring some of the continent’s finest.
“Every game is important,” he said. “But of course, against Madrid, we have to be at our best. They have great players — you look at Mbappé, Vinícius — they can change the game in a second. We need to be focused.”
He also revealed that teammate Ibrahima Konaté has shared insights from his own experience facing Mbappé at international level, underlining the collective preparation taking place within the squad.
Building for the future under Slot
Beyond the Madrid encounter, Gravenberch’s evolution mirrors the broader story of Slot’s early months in charge — a team learning, adjusting and gradually rediscovering its rhythm.
As new arrivals continue to bed in, the midfielder believes patience will be key. “For the new players, it’s not easy straight away,” he said. “They come to a new club with a new coach and different principles. It takes time, but everyone is improving.”
With the Dutchman’s blend of discipline and creativity, Liverpool’s midfield looks increasingly balanced — and Gravenberch’s form embodies that progress. His relationship with Slot appears to be at the heart of a new phase for both player and club: one built on trust, clarity and belief.
