Liverpool’s Ryan Gravenberch Seemingly Takes Swipe at Jurgen Klopp’s Tactics
It’s fair to say that Ryan Gravenberch has caught the eye this season with his impressive displays for Liverpool. The Dutch midfielder has started every league game for the Reds and has also featured in their Champions League campaigns, but what’s equally noteworthy is the subtle shade he’s thrown at former boss Jurgen Klopp’s tactics.
Speaking to the media, Gravenberch opened up about his struggles under Klopp, hinting that he often found himself playing outside of his comfort zone. “Sometimes I had matches [last season] where I only touched the ball after five minutes,” he revealed. “Then I don’t get into my game, I don’t get into my rhythm. This feels more comfortable to me.”
Those comments seem to suggest that Gravenberch found it difficult to get on the ball and dictate play under Klopp’s high-pressing style. Instead, he’s thrived under the guidance of Arne Slot, who took over as Liverpool boss over the summer. Slot has given Gravenberch the freedom to play more creatively, and the midfielder has responded by producing some outstanding performances.
Gravenberch’s revival is all the more impressive when you consider that he joined Liverpool for £34 million in the summer of 2023. At the time, there were plenty of doubts about whether the Dutchman could adapt to the Premier League, but he’s more than silencing those critics with his displays.
In fact, Gravenberch has been so impressive that Alan Shearer has been raving about him on the Rest is Football podcast. “I know they wanted a midfielder [this summer] but I think [the midfield has] probably been one of their strengths in the first few games,” Shearer said. “In terms of Gravenberch, I think he’s been outstanding hasn’t he.”
Liverpool fans will be hoping Gravenberch can keep up his scintillating form, and who knows, maybe he can even inspire a title tilt. One thing’s for sure, Gravenberch has found his stride under Slot, and his comments about Klopp’s tactics have certainly piqued the interest of fans.
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