Ryan Gravenberch has started the new campaign in style, already scoring twice for Liverpool after failing to net last season.
The Dutch midfielder played a crucial role in Liverpool’s Premier League title triumph but endured one frustration — he didn’t score once.
Gravenberch was Arne Slot’s preferred number six last season, following Martin Zubimendi’s decision to reject a move to Anfield in summer.
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Slot trusted his compatriot immediately, handing him 49 appearances in all competitions, including 37 Premier League starts, cementing him as a key figure.
His consistency earned him the Premier League Young Player of the Season award, plus inclusion in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year.
From Defensive Anchor To Scoring Midfielder
Despite the accolades, Gravenberch admitted in May that failing to score throughout the campaign was “annoying” and left him feeling unsatisfied.
He explained his defensive role limited chances inside the box, restricting his attacking freedom compared to fellow midfielders like Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister.
Gravenberch revealed he often hoped to be on free-kicks or penalties, joking about conversations with teammates predicting his long-awaited first goal.
This season, Slot has tweaked Liverpool’s system, giving him more freedom to drive forward, and the results have already brought two decisive goals, reports Echo.
Now combining defensive responsibility with attacking contributions, Gravenberch looks set for an even bigger influence in Liverpool’s pursuit of further silverware this season
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