1 month ago
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Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images
The Dutchman has thrived in the beginning of this season.
Ryan Gravenberch has been a revelation early on in this season. Though he arrived at the club under Jürgen Klopp, it’s been new Head Coach Arne Slot who has unleashed his true potential. He was voted Standard Chartered Player of the Month for September as recognition for his standout performances that helped contribute to Liverpool’s fantastic start to the season.
Gravenberch spoke about the difference between training with the two bosses.
“We started on zero again with the new coach,” he said. “Everyone started on zero and had to… not impress, but show themselves again because we have a new coach who is making new decisions.
“Training is different, of course, because there is different staff. We are doing different exercises. [Jürgen] Klopp had his exercises and the coach likes to do his own exercises so I think it’s a bit different this season, but as I said it has been nice,” he said.
“I think he likes everything in position, for us to be in possession and to kill the opponent with passes. I am really happy with that style and enjoy the way we play.”
The big performances he’s put in and the success the Reds have had proves that Gravenberch is not the only player who is happy with Slot and his style of play. They’ve won nine out of their first 10 games in all competitions.
Despite not getting as much playing time last season, Gravenberch recognizes that the bedding in process and learning how to play in the Premier League has helped him get where he is now.
“Every player is different and, to be honest, I like a period to adapt. I wasn’t used to the Premier League, of course, and I didn’t play a lot of football before I came here, but I had the time to adapt and I really needed it.
“It can take time to build relationships on the pitch and, what I said, every player is different. I think if you train a lot with your teammates you adapt to them quicker and adapt to the league quicker,” he said.
To ESPN, he explained why the vibes are right with Slot.
“The coach gives me confidence and sets me up. just do my own thing. The things I did at Ajax, I do now.”
“I discuss all kinds of things with him,” Gravenberch added. “It’s mainly about football. We talked last season as well. I have a good bond with him and I’m very happy he’s here. We think in the same way. He likes football and building up from the back. That suits me super well too.”
It’s heartening to see how the players have taken to the new Head Coach so quickly and the way that their respect is translating to results on the pitch. Right now, they have all gone off for the October international break, but with luck, the good times will continue with Gravenberch and the rest of his teammates when they return.
