Dutch football expert Mike Vermijl believes that Liverpool star Ryan Gravenberch will not apologise to Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman
Dutch football expert Mike Vermijl stated that Liverpool star Ryan Gravenberch will issue no apology towards Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman. Gravenberch had a fallout with Koeman after he refused to join the Netherlands under-21 squad on the September international break.
The 21-year-old joined Liverpool from German giants Bayern Munich during the summer transfer deadline day. Subsequently, the Dutchman refused the Netherlands under-21 call-up to adjust to the lifestyle at the new club and city.
Gravenberch has been in sensational form for the Reds since signing for the club. However, the Dutch international did not make it to Koeman’s preliminary squad for the EURO 2024 qualifiers in November.
Vermijl told Kick-Off Podcast (h/t Express) that he believes Gravenberch will not issue an apology for making a justifiable decision. He said:
“I just don’t think Gravenberch is going to apologise. A player should also be able to say that he prefers to acclimatise at his new club over the Dutch Juniors.”
Gravenberch has made 11 appearances for the Reds in all competitions this season while contributing two goals and two assists. The Dutchman has adapted perfectly to Liverpool’s style of play while earning plaudits from the Kopites and football pundits.
The 21-year-old left Bayern after struggling to solidify his place in the starting eleven of the German club. Many experts assumed that Bayern’s style of play did not help the Dutchman showcase his special talent.
However, Gravenberch showed his capabilities this season, exhibiting both defensive and offensive qualities that should suit any top club. The 21-year-old is still very young but he has gained a lot of experience during his time at Ajax.
Jurgen Klopp: "Ryan Gravenberch, excellent guy and top signing. Really good player. I'm so happy for him".
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 27, 2023
"His first touch is incredible. So good in tight spaces. He still has space for improvement. He's very young and so much more to come". pic.twitter.com/hUMbxwdcc6
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp deploys Gravenberch in a No 8 role on the left side of a three-man midfield. The Dutchman has an incredible engine and athleticism to cover distance and hold his ground in duels whether he is on or off the ball.
The 21-year-old has shown immense technique, mature decision-making and positioning mindset while working hard in the counter-pressing system.
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Koeman publicly revealed that he is holding a grudge against Gravenberch for snubbing the Under-21 call-up in September. Nevertheless, the justified reasons for the snub from the 21-year-old are well-known and they served the purpose.
The 21-year-old has committed no wrongdoing, and he would gladly represent his country if given the opportunity. It seems Koeman is letting his ego get the better of him as he deprives the national squad of a brilliant in-form midfielder.
