Revealed: How This Former Liverpool Star Helped to Sign ‘Talented’ Midfielder | OneFootball

Ryan Gravenberch: The Influences Shaping Liverpool’s Midfield Star

David Lynch’s insightful article on his Substack platform reveals the influences that have helped shape Ryan Gravenberch’s career and why Liverpool fans can thank former Reds player Ryan Babel for the young midfielder’s arrival. Through anecdotes from Gravenberch’s coaches, family, and friends, we gain a sense of the disciplined, dynamic journey that has brought him to Anfield—a journey that was far from straightforward.

Mentorship from a Liverpool Favourite

Ryan Babel’s role in Gravenberch’s decision to join Liverpool cannot be understated. After brief stints with Gravenberch at Ajax and the Netherlands national team, Babel remained connected with the young talent. When Liverpool expressed interest, Babel seized the chance to promote Anfield as a family-oriented club with passionate fans. He explained to Gravenberch, “It’s a great club where you can create a great legacy. I feel like I could have done way more in that little four-year spell but… fans appreciate players who give everything for the jersey.”

Photo: IMAGO

While some may argue that his time at Bayern Munich created doubts over Gravenberch’s potential, Babel saw only talent waiting for the right environment. He was confident Liverpool was the ideal setting to nurture this talent. As he puts it, “I was personally very happy and I was also very happy for Liverpool because I knew they were buying an incredible talent.”

Developing the “Snake” Style at Ajax

Gravenberch’s unique playing style—often described as “snake-like” for his ability to twist away from opponents—was honed at Ajax. His youth coach, Peter van der Veen, recalls this early development, explaining, “He could turn away from opponents with ease.” This skill saw him rise quickly through the ranks at Ajax, consistently playing above his age group to maximize his development.

Van der Veen shared stories of how Gravenberch’s rapid progression led to him playing for the Dutch U17 side in the European Championships. In partnership with fellow talent Brian Brobbey, Gravenberch led his team to victory, reinforcing his status as one of Ajax’s most promising young players. This upward trajectory continued until his senior debut at just 16, showing a maturity on the field that defied his years.

Overcoming the Setbacks in Munich

Gravenberch’s time at Bayern Munich didn’t go as planned, with limited playing time casting shadows over his potential. This could easily have led to doubts, but those who know him best were unfazed. Babel highlights that timing and adaptability played a role in the Munich struggles, stating, “Sometimes, it’s not always the player’s fault. Timing is very important.”

Photo: IMAGO

Babel believes Bayern’s coaching decisions overlooked Gravenberch’s unique style and strengths. As Mike Kolf, who has known Gravenberch since childhood, explains, “Bayern bought him, but they forgot that at Ajax, the coaches recognised his importance.” For Gravenberch, a player who thrives on setting the tempo, finding the right fit in a team structure is critical.

Thriving Under Arne Slot at Liverpool

Now at Liverpool, Gravenberch finds himself under the guidance of Arne Slot, a manager who understands the Dutch way of nurturing players. This connection with Slot, who succeeded Klopp, is proving to be the ideal pairing. Van der Veen believes Slot’s coaching style will bring out the best in Gravenberch: “He needs an arm around him… Slot gets the best out of players and gives them confidence.”

Liverpool fans are already seeing the impact of Gravenberch’s arrival. His creative flair, grounded discipline, and ability to unlock defences are precisely what the Reds need as they rebuild in the post-Klopp era. This season could mark the beginning of a special chapter for the young Dutchman in the Premier League.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

It’s exciting times for Liverpool fans! Ryan Gravenberch represents the sort of talent that makes you sit up and pay attention. His blend of technical skill, physicality, and a willingness to improve suggests he has everything to become a mainstay in Liverpool’s midfield. The influence of Ryan Babel, combined with his Dutch roots and the coaching of Arne Slot, have allowed Gravenberch to find his place in Liverpool’s lineup with ease.

In Gravenberch, Liverpool has found a player who embodies the loyalty and passion for the club that fans crave. With a supportive family and coaches who’ve pushed him at every step, it’s clear he has the discipline to become a future star at Anfield. The signs of his brilliance are already there, and as he grows into the Premier League, it’s hard not to feel that Liverpool has landed one of the best young midfielders in Europe. This season, Kopites should sit back and enjoy watching Gravenberch weave his way through defences with that snake-like movement and prove exactly why he belongs in a Liverpool shirt.