Anfield Index
·26 November 2024
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Yahoo sportsAnfield Index
·26 November 2024
Liverpool fans have every reason to be buzzing as Ryan Gravenberch, the Dutch midfield dynamo, continues to make waves in Arne Slot’s rejuvenated side. His transformation into a permanent No.6 under Slot’s system has not only enhanced his own game but has also given Liverpool a rock-solid base to build their dominance across competitions.
Gravenberch’s role has been pivotal in Liverpool’s unbeaten run in the Premier League and Champions League, with his standout performance coming in the thrilling 3-2 victory over Southampton. Speaking to Liverpool FC’s official website, Gravenberch reflected on his journey, challenges, and lofty ambitions for the club.
Photo: IMAGO
Transitioning to a deeper midfield position can be daunting, but Gravenberch has embraced the challenge with open arms. His conversation with Slot during pre-season set the tone for his impressive displays this season.
“When you come to Liverpool you always want to be a first XI, starting player,” he said. “When he told me he sees me like a No.6, I’ve played there in that position before, so I knew what I had to do and what I had to improve.”
This adaptation has been seamless, as evidenced by his assist for Mohamed Salah’s equaliser against Southampton. However, Gravenberch remains a perfectionist, acknowledging that he has areas to refine.
“I still keep improving and want to do better,” he admitted. “I think it’s going really well, but I can also do better.”
Photo: IMAGO
One of Gravenberch’s standout traits is his ability to combine defensive solidity with creative flair. While he admits his defensive positioning can improve, his contributions have already been immense.
“My defensive things I can do better,” he noted. “I always think [keeping] 100 per cent concentrated and also in possession maybe I can play more balls behind the defence and can maybe score as well or give an assist.”
Winning Liverpool’s September Standard Chartered Men’s Player of the Month award reflects how quickly he has adapted to Slot’s demands. His hunger for improvement underscores his determination to not only elevate his individual game but also propel Liverpool to greater heights.
Photo: IMAGO
Gravenberch’s mindset is rooted in dreaming big. For him, Liverpool’s current form is not just about dominating matches but about laying the groundwork for trophies.
On the team’s potential to win silverware, he confidently stated, “Yes, for sure. For me, you have to dream big. For example, in my life I want to win the Premier League for sure one time… you want to win everything. We will see.”
This ambitious outlook mirrors the ethos of Liverpool under Slot. The team leads the Premier League by eight points and remains unbeaten in the Champions League—a testament to their collective quality and Gravenberch’s growing influence.
Liverpool face a defining week with clashes against Real Madrid and Manchester City. Gravenberch’s ability to control the tempo and break up opposition attacks will be crucial as the Reds navigate these high-stakes fixtures.
His performance against Southampton showcased his readiness for the big stage, and fans will be eager to see how he matches up against world-class opponents.
Liverpool supporters should be ecstatic about Ryan Gravenberch’s rise. His ability to adapt so quickly to the No.6 role is nothing short of remarkable. Many were sceptical about whether the young Dutchman could fill the void left by previous midfield stalwarts, but he’s proven to be more than capable.
His assist for Salah against Southampton was just a glimpse of his creative spark. What’s even more exciting is his potential to grow. Imagine a Gravenberch who not only dictates play but adds goals and assists consistently—that’s the kind of player Liverpool have on their hands.
Under Slot, Liverpool have rediscovered their swagger, and Gravenberch epitomises this new era. His confidence in targeting trophies, particularly the Premier League, resonates deeply with fans who have been craving silverware after Klopp’s departure.
With Real Madrid and Manchester City up next, it’s a defining moment for both Gravenberch and Liverpool. Fans will be backing him to deliver yet again and cement his status as one of the league’s standout midfielders this season.