Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch has quickly established himself as one of the first players on the teamsheet, but he can become even better.
Gravenberch has really impressed Arne Slot this season, with the midfielder having been a regular for Liverpool in all competitions.
Rafael van der Vaart labelled Gravenberch a ‘complete midfielder’, such has been his impressive displays under Slot.
Gravenberch already boasts 20 appearances this season, having often struggled for minutes under Jurgen Klopp.
A total of 38 appearances arrived under the German in all competitions last time out, but he found himself well down the midfield pecking order.
Ryan Gravenberch of Liverpool passes the ball during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD6 match between Girona FC and Liverpool FC at...
Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images
Liverpool star Ryan Gravenberch must add goals to his game
In a complete turnaround, he is a certain starter under Slot, with the 22-year-old forming a superb relationship with his fellow midfielders.
Another impressive display came in the 1-0 Champions League win at Girona on Tuesday, although it became apparent once more that Gravenberch can improve in front of goal.
Playing in defensive midfield does, of course, mean the Netherlands ace is more often in his own half than the opposition’s, but it hasn’t stopped him from getting forward and joining in on attacks.
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Being clinical, however, is not the problem, with Gravenberch simply needing to attempt more shots on goal, with the goals certain to come with more efforts.
His lack of attempts could come down to several factors, such as decision-making and confidence, both of which could arrive with experience.
Gravenberch expertly played through Andy Robertson while on the edge of the box on the hour mark in Girona, leading to a superb chance for the left-back.
But a previous opportunity for Gravenberch to shoot was missed, with the midfielder instead opting to recycle possession.
Ryan Gravenberch’s Liverpool, Bayern Munich and Ajax stats
Gravenberch has mastered dropping his shoulder and bursting forward with the ball, but even defensive midfielders need to chip in on the goals front every now and then.
The likes of Rodri and Tomas Soucek have done that for Manchester City and West Ham respectively in recent times, with Fabinho doing the same for Liverpool before the arrival of Gravenberch.
Appearances Goals Assists
Ajax 103 12 13
Bayern Munich 34 1 1
Liverpool 58 4 3
Netherlands 18 1 1
Ryan Gravenberch club and country stats
But the Dutchman has scored just four goals from his 58 appearances for the Anfield club, all of which arrived last season.
His £34million price tag has turned out to be a complete steal, but now is the time for the midfielder to add goals to his game and truly become world-class.
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