Ryan Gravenberch's Hybrid Evolution, Slot-Klopp's Vision

LIVERPOOL, SATURDAY — The Merseyside derby presents two interesting aspects from Liverpool. Although still far from their best performance and often winning with difficulty, "The Reds" have achieved optimal results at the start of the season. Behind this, there is a new and crucial role played by midfielder Ryan Gravenberch.

Five matches have passed, with five victories for Liverpool in the English Premier League. The team coached by Arne Slot secured three points once again after defeating Everton 2-1 at Anfield Stadium on Saturday (20/9/2025). As in previous matches, Liverpool had to endure suspense until the very last second.

Liverpool took a two-goal lead in the first half through Gravenberch and striker Hugo Ekitike. However, their recurring issues this season resurfaced. They lost control and conceded after the break due to a goal from the visiting midfielder Idrissa Gueye.

Slot explained that the issue this time is not about match management or loss of focus, but rather fatigue. "We played three matches in seven days and this is a derby match. You could see how fresh we were in the first 45 minutes, but everything became difficult in the second half," he stated.

The coach praised the resilient mentality of Mohamed Salah and his teammates who were able to maintain their lead. As a result, Liverpool swept all five of their initial matches in the Premier League. They remain undisturbed at the top of the standings with 15 points, although they are still far from their best performance.

Behind the victory over the neighboring team, Gravenberch became the main highlight. The defensive midfielder emerged as the best player of the match, contributing one goal and one assist. He seemed to take on the creative role typically held by attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz, who started the match on the bench.

The most interesting aspect of Gravenberch is not his goal contributions, but rather the evolution of his role on the field. In Slot's first year, last season, the 23-year-old player was primarily tasked with defensive duties. He played as a pivot midfielder or "number 6," who had limited freedom of movement.

A different scene unfolded in the derby. In Liverpool's opening goal, in the 10th minute, Gravenberch entered the penalty area to take advantage of the space and the pass created by Salah. His position was well above Dominik Szoboszlai, who was played as an attacking midfielder in the 4-2-3-1 formation.

For the second goal, Gravenberch provided the assist after a dribble into the right half. He was again positioned higher than Szoboszlai, who replaced Wirtz. If he had applied his role from last season, Gravenberch would have stayed back to protect the defenders.

"Coaches are the ones who give me confidence. This season we have more freedom in the midfield. Last season I only played in the number six position, very deep. Now I can move further forward, as you can see. My strength is also there," said Gravenberch.

When he was first brought to Liverpool by former manager Juergen Klopp, Gravenberch was indeed positioned as an "8" midfielder who would frequently advance to support the attack. However, he struggled to perform that role effectively. The position has since been changed to a pivot.

This season, Gravenberch seems to be in a blend of visions from Slot and Klopp. The Dutch national team player is still positioned as a "number 6," but he is free to advance into the attacking line if there is space to exploit. As a result, he has already scored two goals in four league matches. In contrast, Gravenberch did not manage to contribute any goals in 37 appearances last season.

Interestingly, Gravenberch's brilliant performance is not merely a coincidence due to Wirtz's absence. He has already demonstrated a crucial role in the attacking line in several previous matches, including the Champions League group stage match against Atletico Madrid last week.

Gravenberch inspired Liverpool's two early goals. The first goal for "The Reds" came from a free kick. The set-piece was created through Gravenberch's individual movement into the penalty area. The same pattern was repeated in the second goal. The difference was that his touch was directed straight to Salah, resulting in a goal.

Gravenberch's best attributes in the attacking line are his ability to maneuver past opponents and read space and time. With long legs from his 190-centimeter frame, he can easily deceive opponents with slight changes in movement. He also understands when to make a pass or dribble.

According to Slot, tactical evolution should be undertaken by every team in a new season. They must find a new formula to avoid being easily read. Moreover, Liverpool arrives with the mission of defending their championship title. They will undoubtedly be the main attraction for all competing teams.

Regardless of that, Slot still emphasizes Gravenberch's primary obligation to protect the defense. "I am reluctant to say (he) is free to move, but he has certain moments when he can assist the attack. It all depends on how the opposing team applies pressure. He has a little more freedom to move (compared to last season)," explained the coach.

On the other hand, Everton's poor record at Anfield still persists. Coach David Moyes has also yet to secure a victory at Liverpool's home ground throughout his career. "We were very close (to stealing points), especially with our performance in the second half. However, we gave away too much in the first half," he stated. (AP/REUTERS)