Ryan Gravenberch Emerges as Star Midfielder for Liverpool, Market Value Skyrockets

When Liverpool signed Ryan Gravenberch from Bayern Munich for £34 million in September 2023, few could have predicted his rapid rise to becoming one of the club’s most important players. Under new manager Arne Slot, the Dutch midfielder has found his ideal role and is now valued at £82 million – a stunning 126% increase in less than a year.

Gravenberch initially struggled to make an impact in his first season at Anfield, starting only 12 Premier League matches under Jurgen Klopp. Critics questioned his defensive work rate and ability to influence games. However, Slot’s arrival has transformed Gravenberch’s fortunes.

Playing in a deeper midfield role, Gravenberch has become the fulcrum of Liverpool’s play. His passing accuracy has improved from 83% to 90%, while he’s more than doubled his ball recoveries per game from 2.8 to 5.3. The 22-year-old is now starting every match and controlling games with his elegant style.

Liverpool reporter Dave Ockop has claimed Gravenberch “is turning into one of the best midfielders in the world.” The statistics back this up – according to CIES Football Observatory, Gravenberch is now worth more than established stars like Martin Odegaard and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.

With Liverpool top of the Premier League and competing on multiple fronts, Gravenberch’s emergence has been crucial. His ability to dictate play from deep while still contributing in attack has given the team a new dimension. At just 22, there’s still huge potential for further growth.

Gravenberch’s transformation is a testament to Slot’s coaching and Liverpool’s player development. What looked like an expensive gamble last summer now appears a bargain. If he can maintain this level, the “gliding machine” could become one of Europe’s elite midfielders in the coming years.