"When Ryan Gravenberch was the newest stellar young talent to roll off Ajax's prodigious production line, he had the label of "the new Frank Rijkaard" draped around his shoulders. The burden of comparison to the great Rijkaard, who won the Champions League, European Cup Winners' Cup and five Eredivisie titles with Ajax as well as two European Cups with AC Milan was a heavy one."
"Slot utilised Gravenberch as a holding midfielder when winning the Premier League in his first season, making this key decision after a proposed 52m deal for Real Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi, now at Arsenal, collapsed. Gravenberch, with more attacking freedom, has moved to another level this season, Liverpool's standout performer as they have won five league games out of five to top the table."
"Gravenberch flourished as Liverpool's holding 'number six' last season and, while that is still his designated role, Slot is allowing greater freedom this term to maximum effect. While his defensive numbers on tackles, clearances and winning possession are almost identical to last season, Gravenberch has been getting on the ball in central areas higher up the pitch in this campaign."
"He did not score a league goal in 37 appearances last season, but already has two in four appearances this season, including the opener in the Merseyside derby win against Everton at Anfield. In Liverpool's 1-0 win at Burnley Gravenberch had four shots and created four chances. In contrast, there were 11 league games last season in which he did not have a shot or create a chance."
Ryan Gravenberch emerged from Ajax with comparisons to Frank Rijkaard and experienced a difficult season at Bayern Munich. Liverpool signed him for a reported 34m in September 2023 and Arne Slot deployed him as a holding midfielder during their Premier League-winning campaign. Slot has since granted Gravenberch more attacking freedom, producing greater influence, goals and chance creation while defensive metrics remain similar to last season. Gravenberch has scored two goals in four appearances, including the Merseyside derby opener, and registered notable attacking involvement in wins at Burnley and Anfield, elevating his standing among Europe’s top midfielders.
Read at www.bbc.com
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