Rio Ferdinand heaps praise on ‘wonderful’ Liverpool star | OneFootball

Rio Ferdinand Hails Liverpool Midfielder’s Electrifying Start

Liverpool’s inconsistent start has prompted plenty of debate, yet individual performances tell a more nuanced story. While some players have struggled for rhythm, Ryan Gravenberch has become a rare constant in Arne Slot’s side. Operating as both shield and spear, the Dutchman has been one of the few to deliver in every phase of play.

His blend of physicality, poise and forward thrust has not gone unnoticed. Rio Ferdinand has been watching closely and made his admiration clear.

“I think I’ve spoken about Gravenberch since he was at Ajax. When I watched him in the Champions League and I was like mesmerised, like, oh, this kid’s going to be nuts.” he said on the Rio Ferdinand Presents Podcast.

“He went to Bayern. Things didn’t work out. He’s come to Liverpool and you’re now seeing the potential starting to mature.

“The assets he has with taking the ball under pressure, taking and beating the press with the ball, driving with it. Defensively, he’s improving all the time. I think he’s got a wonderful career ahead of him.”

A Midfielder Carrying Too Much Burden

Ferdinand’s praise highlights what many Liverpool supporters have already acknowledged. Gravenberch has been decisive in transition, composed in tight spaces and proactive without possession. With three goal contributions already, he is offering tangible output alongside graft.

The issue lies in the imbalance around him. Alexis Mac Allister and Florian Wirtz have yet to rediscover their best form, leaving Gravenberch exposed in key defensive moments. Ibrahima Konaté’s erratic displays have only widened the gaps between midfield and defence.

Such structural frailties have led some to question whether Gravenberch has done enough to protect the back line. In truth, he has often been asked to perform two roles at once, screening space and carrying the ball into attack without sufficient support.

Potential Untapped Once Structure Settles

Liverpool’s defensive leaks have unfairly overshadowed the discipline Gravenberch brings. Once the collective cohesion improves, his influence will be even more apparent. Slot’s tactical model relies on control through midfield and no one currently embodies that idea more.

There is no sign of his momentum slowing. Ferdinand’s long-standing admiration dates back to Ajax and the former defender appears even more convinced now that Gravenberch is flourishing in a system suited to his strengths.

If Liverpool stabilise as expected, this could be the campaign where Gravenberch transitions from exciting prospect to undisputed leader.