Former Netherlands attacking midfielder Rafael van der Vaart claimed that Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch “has the potential to be world-class”
Netherlands icon Rafael van der Vaart heaped praise on Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch while highlighting his “potential to be world-class”. Gravenberch joined Liverpool from Bayern Munich last summer and showed a glimpse of his ability last season under Jurgen Klopp.
The 22-year-old is currently with the Netherlands national team and he delivered a fantastic performance in the 4-0 victory over Canada. The Dutchman is part of Ronald Koeman’s squad for the Euro 24 after returning from a short controversial exile.
After leaving Ajax for Bayern, Gravenberch struggled to receive sufficient games as he couldn’t fit their tactical style of play. At Liverpool, the Dutchman struggled with nagging injuries during the last season that hampered his appearances for the club.
Nevertheless, Gravenberch made 39 appearances in all competitions for Liverpool while contributing four goals and providing two assists last season. The Dutch midfielder can play multiple different roles as a midfielder but thrives more as a number 10.
Speaking to Sportskeeda (via Liverpool Echo), Van Der Vaart highlighted the career journey of Gravenberch while praising his huge potential. He said:
“If Bayern and Liverpool want you, then you just go. He really has the potential to be world-class. If you go from Ajax to Bayern and Liverpool, and you don’t play much, then it is better to choose a club where you know you will just make a lot of minutes. And he has not done that. But, in the matches he has played, you can see that he is really a (quality) midfielder. I think he is so good. His potential is incredible.”
New Liverpool head coach Arne Slot is inheriting a strong squad from Klopp with Gravenberch a part of it. The Dutch international could enjoy fantastic development and fulfilment of his potential under Slot’s tactics and style of play.
The 45-year-old prefers to focus more on team build-up play than counter-attacking football, using a 4-2-3-1 formation with multiple variations. The style of play requires a number six, a number eight and a number 10 in midfield
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Gravenberch fits the profile perfectly and Slot has enjoyed a good reputation for helping youngsters even surpass their potential. Liverpool fans are eagerly waiting to see players like Gravenberch operate under Slot in a new style of play.
