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Ryan Gravenberch and his £34 million transfer from Bayern Munich to Liverpool is emerging as one of the Reds’ most astute signings in recent memory.

Under the tutelage of his compatriot, Arne Slot, Gravenberch has blossomed into a pivotal figure in the Liverpool midfield, particularly in his new role as a deeper-lying midfielder.

Gravenberch’s transformation has been nothing short of remarkable.

Having started every Premier League game this season, he has already accumulated 23 league appearances, nearing the total of 26 he managed throughout the entirety of the previous campaign.

This increased playing time is a testament to his growing importance within the team.

One of the most striking aspects of Gravenberch’s development is his versatility and willingness to learn.

Initially preferring to play as a more advanced midfielder, he has thrived in his new role, showcasing a maturity and tactical awareness that belies his age.

His ability to control the tempo of the game, distribute the ball effectively, and provide defensive solidity has been instrumental in Liverpool’s success this season.

Statistically, Gravenberch’s underlying numbers put him amongst the best midfielders in world football:

Ryan Gravenberch.

Based on 3037 minutes played.

And now Gravenberch has admitted that he historically prefers playing further forward as a midfielder.

What did Ryan Gravenberch say about Arne Slot?

Speaking on Liverpool’s YouTube channel as part of  the ‘Day in the Life’ series, Ryan Gravenberch revealed that it was phone call with Arne Slot that planted the seed in his manager’s mind regarding the No.6 position.

The former Ajax man told Slot that while he could play as a No,6, he preferred the No.8 position:

“I knew him because I played against him when he was at Feyenoord,” the 23-year-old began.

“The first conversation was on the phone

He called me and asked me how I was, how I was feeling and everything, and how he saw me in the team.”

“Which positions and everything, as a six and as an eight.”

“Before I came here, they were also the positions I liked to play

More as an eight than six, but this season he put me at six and I’ve done really well.”

It speaks volumes that Gravenberch is willing to play a less favoured role for the benefit of the team at such a young age.

And at this rate, it seems his role as the deepest-lying midfielder may well turn into his primary position – with an argument to be made it has already has.

Read More: Ange Postecoglou confirms 10 Tottenham players out vs Liverpool

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