Former top coach Guus Hiddink is impressed with Ryan Gravenberch's development in a Liverpool shirt. The 78-year-old ex-coach of teams such as PSV, Real Madrid, and Chelsea describes the Dutch international as "a beautiful footballer."
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Since Arne Slot's appointment as Liverpool manager, Ryan Gravenberch has flourished, establishing himself as a fixture in the starting lineup and solidifying his role within the Dutch national team.
This is a stark contrast to his situation during the last European Championship, where he was largely confined to the bench. His transformation has caught the attention of many in the footballing world, including Guus Hiddink, a legendary figure in Dutch football and a former coach of top international sides like the Netherlands, South Korea, Australia, Russia, and Curaçao.
Hiddink has been particularly impressed by Gravenberch's ability to merge traditional Dutch footballing principles often referred to as the "Dutch School" with the demands of modern international football. "Ryan Gravenberch is a great example of a player who combines the so-called Dutch School with modern international football," Hiddink said, emphasizing how the young midfielder has embraced the nuances of contemporary football while staying true to his roots.
Reflecting on Gravenberch’s early days at Liverpool, Hiddink acknowledged that the player initially displayed a tendency to be overly playful in his approach, which sometimes led to lapses in focus. "In his early days at Liverpool, Gravenberch was sometimes a bit too playful," Hiddink noted. "But after that, you could clearly see that he has the right awareness and is receiving good guidance. Very quickly, he added other elements to his game: faster decision-making, turning into space at the right moments, and handling one-on-one situations effectively."
These improvements, according to Hiddink, have been instrumental in Gravenberch's ability to thrive in the high-pressure, fast-paced environment of the Premier League. Hiddink’s admiration for Gravenberch’s growth is particularly noteworthy given his own experience in England’s top division, having managed Chelsea during two separate spells. His familiarity with the rigors of the Premier League lends weight to his praise for the young Dutchman.
One of the most striking aspects of Gravenberch's development, as Hiddink highlighted, is his ability to balance the physical and technical demands of football. "The most impressive thing is when both aspects are united in a footballer. And that brings me back to Gravenberch," Hiddink said. "In his position, he needs to cover a lot of ground, but his play is also a joy to watch."
Hiddink elaborated on the challenge coaches face in finding players who can balance physicality and artistry, particularly in modern football, where athleticism is increasingly prioritized. "With players who excel in one area but lack in the other, it's crucial to balance your team. I also understand why coaches in modern football increasingly value athletic players. The high tempo and intensity at the top level demand it. With a team of eleven artists, you'll be outplayed by eleven athletes," he explained.
Gravenberch's journey at Liverpool has been one of rapid adaptation and continuous improvement. Since joining the club, he has evolved from a promising but inconsistent talent into a player capable of influencing games at the highest level. His performances have not only impressed Hiddink but also resonated with fans and pundits, who view him as a cornerstone of Liverpool's midfield for years to come.
Moreover, his growing importance for the Dutch national team underscores his rising profile on the international stage. Under Arne Slot’s guidance at Liverpool and with the confidence gained from becoming a regular starter, Gravenberch has showcased his versatility, intelligence, and work ethic. His ability to seamlessly transition from defense to attack, coupled with his technical skill and tactical awareness, has made him an indispensable asset for both club and country.
Gravenberch's story is a testament to the value of good coaching and the player's own willingness to adapt and grow. As Hiddink aptly pointed out, it is this combination of physical and technical excellence that sets Gravenberch apart. His journey serves as an example of how young players can bridge traditional footballing philosophies with the demands of modern, high-intensity competition. As Liverpool and the Dutch national team continue to benefit from his contributions, Gravenberch’s rise seems far from finished, with even greater accomplishments likely on the horizon.
Updated: 03:57, 2 Dec 2024
