Ryan Gravenberch Surprised by His Own Performances After Role Change at Liverpool

Ryan Gravenberch, a midfielder for Liverpool, said he’s been pleasantly pleased by his own play since taking on a new position under head coach Arne Slot.

Upon his return from Euro 2024, Slot’s strategy—which involves Gravenberch playing as a number six—was explained to him. Prior to working under Jurgen Klopp as a number eight, the Dutch midfielder supported Liverpool’s assault by playing higher up the pitch. Nonetheless, Gravenberch has accepted his increased defensive responsibilities since the tactical adjustment.

Gravenberch’s Views on the New Position

In a statement to the club’s media, Gravenberch said:

“The coach told me that, although I want to try you as a No.6, I see you as a No. 8 like last season. Of course we can do it. I told him, and the rest is history.”

He went on to consider the distinctions between the two positions, saying, “As an eight, you are really more of an attacker than a defender. However, I also do a really good job defending, so I kind of impress myself.”

Comparing his present passion for defensive effort to his early Ajax years, Gravenberch also mentioned the progression of his playing style, saying:

“Back in the days when I played with Ajax in the youth [team] I didn’t want to defend! I wasn’t all that fond of it. Presently, though, when you steal the ball from another player, it feels as though you’ve got it. The next one and the following one again, please. I find it enjoyable.”