Hendrick: Liverpool Still Need Martin Zubimendi Despite Gravenberch Progress | OneFootball

Martin Zubimendi and Ryan Gravenberch: Why Liverpool Still Needs a Game Changer

In the latest episode of the Scouted podcast from Anfield Index, football analysts Dave Hendrick and Karl Matchett dove into a compelling discussion around Liverpool’s midfield needs, focusing on Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi and current Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch. With Arne Slot now managing the Reds, the conversation touches on why Zubimendi could still be the key to unlocking Liverpool’s full potential, despite Gravenberch’s promising performances.

Liverpool’s Midfield Evolution Under Arne Slot

As Liverpool transitions from the Jurgen Klopp era into a new tactical structure under Slot, questions around the midfield’s capability have become more pressing. Dave Hendrick opens the conversation by reflecting on Liverpool’s current performances, praising Gravenberch but highlighting key areas where his game lacks, especially when compared to a player like Zubimendi.

“Gravenberch is playing well, there’s no question there,” Hendrick acknowledges. However, he immediately points out a fundamental issue: “There’s two key aspects of that role that he’s not performing well. One of them is central progression… so much of his passing is to the fullbacks, to the centre backs; he’s not progressing the ball well centrally with his passing.” While Gravenberch excels in carrying the ball forward, Hendrick argues that his inability to pass through central areas effectively could be a problem for Liverpool as they aim for more fluidity in attack.

Photo: IMAGO

Gravenberch’s Deficiencies: Why Zubimendi Could Be the Solution

Gravenberch’s weaknesses aren’t just limited to ball progression. Defensively, he has yet to prove his value in shutting down opposition play through the center of the pitch. “We’re too easy to play through at the moment, and part of that is just Gravenberch not knowing where he’s meant to be,” Hendrick explains, pointing to positioning and defensive awareness as areas where the young midfielder is still learning.

It’s here that Zubimendi comes into the picture as a potential upgrade. “Zubimendi fixes both of those problems,” Hendrick states, referring to his ability to progress the ball centrally and his superior defensive awareness. Zubimendi’s positional intelligence and technical skills in passing could offer Liverpool the balance they’ve been seeking in their midfield, which has often struggled against high-pressing teams.

Zubimendi’s Potential Move: Why January Could Be the Key

The summer of 2024 saw Liverpool heavily linked with Zubimendi, but the midfielder chose to remain at Real Sociedad. However, as Karl Matchett suggests, circumstances at Sociedad might prompt the player to reconsider his decision come January.

“Real Sociedad, they’re struggling,” Matchett points out, noting the Basque side’s poor form this season. “That’s not really what Martin Zubimendi agreed to stay for, and I’d imagine he’s having some regrets about his decision.” Hendrick follows up on this thought, suggesting that Zubimendi could be more inclined to push for a move to Liverpool, especially if the club finds itself in a strong position mid-season: “If we get to January and we’re progressing well in the Champions League… all of the doubts that might have circled around Liverpool… might be lifted, and he might be even more certain that it’s the right move for himself.”

What Zubimendi Brings to Liverpool’s Midfield

Zubimendi’s potential impact on Liverpool’s midfield extends beyond mere technical ability. While Gravenberch has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in his physicality and ball-carrying ability, Zubimendi offers a more balanced, all-around approach. “He doesn’t have the same type of size, the same type of physicality that Gravenberch offers,” Hendrick notes, but he quickly adds that Zubimendi’s intelligence and positional awareness make up for these perceived deficiencies.

Hendrick further explains that while Gravenberch has shown growth—especially after a difficult spell at Bayern Munich—Zubimendi’s more refined game might be what Liverpool needs for consistency: “The physicality Gravenberch is showing, that’s by far the biggest improvement he’s made. But Zubimendi… is a different player entirely, and he fixes problems that Gravenberch doesn’t even touch.”

January Transfer Window: Turning Point for Liverpool?

As the January transfer window looms, the question of whether Liverpool will go back in for Zubimendi remains open. Hendrick suggests that the club may well make another attempt, particularly if Real Sociedad’s struggles continue. “I wouldn’t be surprised if we go back for Zubimendi in January,” Hendrick says, adding that the player’s release clause could make negotiations smoother than they were in the summer.

Ultimately, the podcast episode makes a strong case for why Liverpool should still pursue Zubimendi, despite Gravenberch’s potential. Slot’s new tactical setup requires more than just athleticism and ball-carrying skills. It demands a midfielder who can both shield the defense and break lines with precise passing—two areas where Zubimendi excels. With Liverpool likely to be in the market for reinforcements, Zubimendi’s name will undoubtedly be at the top of their list come January.