Ryan Gravenberch has revealed he is “disappointed” to see Liverpool coach John Heitinga leave the club.
The former defender departed last week to take up a role as Ajax’s new head coach, leaving after one year at Anfield. It also means Arne Slot is one position light in his backroom team, with Etienne Reijnen, Marino Pusic and ex-Liverpool striker Dirk Kuyt among those reportedly under consideration to replace Heitinga.
He certainly made a lasting impression on Gravenberch, who claimed the ex-Everton man was a “mentor” and helped immensely in his transformation from a box-to-box midfielder to a more defensive option.
Speaking while on international duty, the 23-year-old revealed the impact Liverpool’s new coaching staff, including Heitinga, had on his position change last summer.
“Slot is a really good coach, with a great eye for detail,” Gravenberch told Dutch outlet Algemeen Dagblad.
“I also talked a lot with John Heitinga about my game this season, watched a lot of footage too. Personally, I’m a bit disappointed he’s going to Ajax, but I think they’re getting a very good coach.”
Ryan Gravenberch and Jorrel Hato during the training session ahead of the UEFA Nations League match against Germany at the FC Bayern Campus, on Oct. 13, 2024 in Munich, Germany.
Ryan Gravenberch is currently on international duty with the Netherlands (Image: ANP via Getty Images)
Graveberch will hope to maintain the same level of consistency without Heitinga next season, in addition to his excellent fitness record.
The former Bayern Munich man played in 37 of the Reds’ Premier League matches and started every match prior to the title being clinched
"Can I keep it up? Good question,” Gravenberch said, reflecting on his durability. “I think recovery after games has become especially important. Taking good care of your body.
“I really have to credit the Liverpool staff for that: they made sure we were always physically prepared for every match.”
Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch struggled against Wolves
Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch formed an superb partnership this season (Image: Getty Images)
Asked about his on-field relationship with fellow midfielder Alexis Mac Allister, Gravenberch added: “In the Premier League, you have to run a lot – even more than in the Netherlands, where it’s more about technique.
“Luckily, I’ve always been good at running. And Mac Allister can handle it too. It just comes with playing at the top level.”
The Liverpool star played 90 minutes once again on Saturday as the Netherlands began their World Cup qualifying campaign with a 2-0 win over Finland, thanks to goals from Memphis Depay and Denzel Dumfries.
Gravenberch won the Premier League’s Young Player of the Year Award in 2024/25 and is expected to be named in the PFA Team of the Season.
Since completing a $43 million (£34M) move to Liverpool in 2023, the Dutchman has played 87 games and netted four goals.