Liverpool star Ryan Gravenberch praised head coach Arne Slot for providing him with a clear plan to deliver consistent performances. Slot shifted Gravenberch into the number six role due to the lack of options and the 22-year-old has thrived there.
Liverpool wanted Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi to rectify their lack of a defensive midfielder that suits Slot’s style of play. However, Zubimendi’s rejection created a lot of chaos in the fanbase as Liverpool lacked a suitable alternative in the market.
The situation provided Gravenberch the welcoming opportunity to establish himself as the primary defensive midfielder after his struggles last season. The 22-year-old joined the Reds from Bayern Munich in the summer of 2023 and suffered from nagging injuries and inconsistencies.
The Dutch international played as a defensive midfielder at Ajax where he enjoyed a steep early rise in his reputation. However, Gravenberch struggled to establish himself at Bayern and played different roles in the midfield while receiving limited first-team chances.
Liverpool used a more direct attacking and counter-attacking style under legendary manager Jurgen Klopp that required a different defensive midfielder. However, the Reds are playing a more calm style under Slot which demands a defensive midfielder of a different profile.
Slot’s style optimizes efficiency and negates the spaces between the midfield and defence when the team is out of possession. This style has allowed Gravenberch to play according to his strength, helping him improve the defensive aspect of his game.
Speaking to the Dutch outlet De Volkskrant, Gravenberch highlighted the influence of Slot in providing him with a clear plan. He said:
“The coach knows that I have a lot of football in me. He has a clear plan, with the build-up, with the pressing. It is up to me to maintain that and be consistent.”
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Slot has earned praise for communicating his demands clearly to the players which allows them to produce consistent performances. Consistency is not just a key for Gravenberch but for the whole team to eliminate complacency and fulfil their ambitions for this season.
