Expecting to continue being a benchwarmer this season, Ryan Gravenberch has ultimately become an irreplaceable player in Arne Slot’s lineup

Thinking he would continue to be a reserve this season, Ryan Gravenberch has finally become an irreplaceable player in Arne Slot’s scheme.

Ryan Gravenberch is one of Liverpool’s key stars, which was demonstrated in the match against Bologna. At Anfield, The Kop fans have repeatedly exclaimed in admiration at the Dutch midfielder’s skillful handling. Gradually, the shadows of old names like Jordan Henderson or Fabinho have faded into the past.

Calm, confident, unpretentious and effective, that’s a brief summary of Gravenberch’s performance against Bologna. Every time the 22-year-old star has the ball at his feet, his confidence is pushed to the highest level. Gravenberch does not make any mistakes and always creates momentum for his teammates to move forward.

The early stages of the Arne Slot era at Liverpool have been very successful. They have won 8/9 matches and are still unbeaten since the beginning of the season. Over the past 2 months, there have been many stories to prove Slot’s success, one of which is Gravenberch’s remarkable progress.

Against Bologna, the Dutch midfielder successfully passed 41/45 times (91% accuracy rate). Of these, 14/18 passes were successful in the opponent’s third. Gravenberch also created 2 dangerous opportunities in front of the Serie A representative’s goal. Finally, the Liverpool midfielder won the ball 9 times, the most on the pitch.

The change in Gravenberch’s playing style in midfield has been greatly influenced by coach Arne Slot. The 22-year-old’s ability to operate well in tight spaces is very important, it helps Liverpool avoid defeat every time Bologna organizes a siege. Escaping the pressure well and moving the ball forward well, Gravenberch is likened to a spring that helps Liverpool’s squad always tend to move forward.

“One of the best ways to escape pressure and overcome opponents is to have a player who can dribble. If that player can overcome the opponent, all pressure will be almost eliminated.

Gravenberch stands out with his ability to hold the ball well, which is very important for Liverpool. However, don’t just focus on praising him for holding the ball well, Gravenberch’s importance in midfield is also shown in many other aspects, which are the movements without the ball and winning the ball back from the opponent. Besides, his second passes are also very impressive” – ​​Slot shared after the win over Bologna.