Ryan Gravenberch has opened up about the differences between working under Arne Slot and Jurgen Klopp, sharing how life with Liverpool’s new head coach feels “more comfortable” for him.
The 22-year-old midfielder has started the season in excellent form, excelling in the No. 6 role and solidifying his place during Liverpool’s first three Premier League games. Gravenberch’s performances have earned him a return to the Netherlands senior national team, where he is preparing to face Bosnia & Herzegovina and Germany in the UEFA Nations League.
In an interview with Dutch media ahead of the international fixtures, Gravenberch discussed his adaptation to Slot’s coaching style and even addressed criticism from Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman, who had made remarks hinting at his past “laziness.”
Thriving Under Arne Slot
Gravenberch has impressed many with how quickly he has adapted to Slot’s system at Liverpool. The midfielder credits Slot’s tactical approach for helping him settle into the squad so easily.
“The coach understands that I have a lot of football in me,” Gravenberch told De Volkskrant. “He has a clear plan – with how we build up and press. It’s up to me to stay consistent and stick to that plan.”
He continued, “From the start, he gave me the chance to focus on a specific position, a bit more defensive, and it’s worked out well for me. That clarity from the coach has made things easier. We play as a team, and that helps individual performances stand out.”
Comparing Slot and Klopp
When asked if he felt “reborn” under Slot, Gravenberch downplayed the idea but acknowledged that Slot’s playing style suits him better than Klopp’s.
“I’m still the same Gravenberch,” he said, speaking to Trouw. “But there are differences. Last season, under Klopp, there were times when I wouldn’t touch the ball for the first five minutes of a match. It was hard for me to find my rhythm.”
He explained that he feels more comfortable now under Slot’s system, where he is more involved and can play to his strengths.
Gravenberch also reflected on the transition from Ajax to life abroad, noting that at Ajax, he played regularly even if his form dipped. “That’s not always the case when you move abroad,” he added.
Responding to Koeman’s Criticism
Earlier this week, Ronald Koeman appeared to criticize Gravenberch, suggesting the young midfielder had been “lazy” in the past. However, Gravenberch was quick to respond.
“People always tell me I’m nonchalant – it’s just part of my nature,” he admitted. “I’ve started well at Liverpool, and those traits are still there, but no one comments on them when things are going well. Everyone makes mistakes.”
Gravenberch will be aiming to silence his critics on the pitch, as the Netherlands take on Bosnia & Herzegovina in their first match of the international break on Saturday.
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