Liverpool star Ryan Gravenberch continues his incredible form, proving Dutch legend Clarence Seedorf correct while embarrassing national manager Ronald Koeman. Koeman has continued his criticism of Gravenberch despite the Dutch midfielder’s impressive start to this season and also international performances.

Koeman exiled Gravenberch last season after the 22-year-old opted to adapt to his new surroundings at Merseyside over international duties. The Netherlands management wanted the young midfielder to feature for the Dutch U-21 during the September international break of 2023.

Gravenberch joined Liverpool from Bayern Munich during the summer of 2023 under Jurgen Klopp after struggling with the German giants. The Dutchman left his childhood club Ajax to join Munich after enjoying a steep rise and earning regular senior experience.

Gravenberch broke the record of Clarence Seedorf by becoming the youngest player ever to play for Ajax in the Eredivisie. The Dutch legend Seedorf backed Gravenberch to carve his destiny and make a great career after his move to Liverpool.

However, Gravenberch struggled to find his best form during the first season, hampered by nagging injuries and limited game time. Liverpool enjoyed a successful revamp during the summer of 2023 but failed to add a permanent solution for defensive midfield.

The ultimate opportunist: Zubimendi’s loss is Gravenberch’s gain

The Reds have Wataru Endo but his age and level of calibre make him a strong squad option at best. The Reds chased Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi this summer to bolster the midfield with a strong number six option.

However, the Spaniard opted to stay with his childhood club, putting his love for locality over ambition in professional football. The situation acted as a golden opportunity for Gravenberch under new head coach Arne Slot in a new tactical style.

Gravenberch has featured regularly as a number six for Slot, delivering sensational performances in the defensive midfielder role for Liverpool. The Reds have won three out of their first three Premier League games, showing effective possessional-based football under past philosophy.

While the culture and philosophy remain similar to the one Klopp installed, Slot emphasizes using the possession efficiently in possession. Furthermore, the Dutch head coach’s style allows Liverpool to leave less gap when they face counter-attacks which negates Gravenberch’s weakness.

The 22-year-old has played as a defensive midfielder in the past when he established himself at Ajax. The position is familiar to the Dutchman and the new tactics allow him to use his qualities.

At the same time, Gravenberch has support during the defensive phase as Slot’s Liverpool squeezed the midfield by having support. The 22-year-old has the physical qualities to win aerial and ground duels in close-quarter and shield the ball in congestion.

Gravenberch’s ability to take on the opposition and make half-turns to commence progressive carries is a critical quality. Furthermore, the Dutchman makes wise decisions in possession, using a variety of passes and dictating the tempo.

The dominant Dutchman: Gravenberch’s recent international performances

Against Germany, the Dutchman provided one assist with 90% passing accuracy and delivered two out of three accurate long balls. Furthermore, Gravenberch created two big chances with two out of three successful dribbles and won one out of two aerial duels. He also won five out of 10 ground duels, making one interception and two tackles in an all-round midfield performance.

Gravenberch delivered a fantastic performance in the Netherlands’ 5-2 victory over Bosnia & Herzegovina but Koeman still subtly criticized him. Speaking to media after the game (via Liverpool Echo), the Dutch manager pointed out Gravenberch’s “laziness” as his past problem. He said:

“We have always seen a lot of potential in Ryan. A lot of people, including me, thought that some of his concentration, his laziness, could be improved.”

Koeman faced criticism for his squad choices during the Euro 2024 tournament despite the options the Netherlands have in players. The Dutch manager has previously managed Everton and Barcelona in two utterly forgetful stints for the respective fanbases.

If Koeman wants to achieve anything in his footballing career, he needs to introspect instead of constantly targeting other individuals. Meanwhile, Gravenberch should focus on maintaining the consistency that he has shown during the start of this season.

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The 22-year-old has the age and all the potential to establish himself as one of the best midfielders in the world. As Liverpool fans continue to grow more fond of Gravenberch, he has every incentive and motivation to achieve his potential.