Liverpool improved to two wins from two in the UEFA Champions League with a 2-0 victory over Serie A club Bologna.
Goals from Alexis MacAllister and Mohamed Salah sealed the three points for the Reds, with Alisson Becker the star of the show as Liverpool faced difficult opposition in Bologna, Merseyside.
Ryan Gravenberch was another player who impressed on the night, as Arne Slot singled him out for praise after full time, with the Liverpool manager satisfied with what he witnessed from the Dutch international against Bologna.
Steve McManaman was similarly caught away by what he witnessed from the 22-year-old during the Champions League.
Gravenberch ‘so distinct’ from other no. 6s following Liverpool showcase.
Speaking during TNT Sports’ coverage of the match, the former Liverpool player explained what distinguishes Gravenberch from other midfielders in his position, with McManaman saying that the Dutch youngster’s movement makes him a threat.
When highlighting one moment of skill from the Liverpool prospect, McManaman stated: “This is what he gives you as a no. 6.” His agility is incredible; he’s so different from traditional No. 6s who sit, pass, and play side-by-side.”
With Liverpool fans blown away by Gravenberch’s one flash of skill against Bologna, it’s evident that the midfielder is carving out a space for himself as the Reds’ unique no. 6, and he’s thriving with each game.
And against Bolgona, despite some sloppy moments on and off the ball, Gravenberch demonstrated enormous quality in his midfield role, with the 22-year-old emerging as a vital player for Slot in this Liverpool system.
Gravenberch can become even better than he is now.
Gravenberch is the youngest player in Liverpool’s customary starting XI this season under Slot, with the midfielder and Dominik Szoboszlai the only two players aged 23 or younger in a veteran side that is mostly performing well.
Which is why the enthusiasm surrounding Gravenberch is more than justified, with the midfielder demonstrating real promise in every game with Liverpool this season and making significant development alongside Mac Allister in the engine room.
And, considering Gravenberch’s youth, the former Bayern Munich player has the potential to become one of the finest in the world at what he does, assuming Liverpool can keep the midfielder fit and healthy this season.
