Thomas Tuchel’s plans for Bayern Munich clearly didn’t feature the Dutchman as he was an unused substitute in the opening league games of the season. While one top class manager may not have seen the potential in the young midfielder, it appears another did.
Gravenberch reveals the advice Jurgen Klopp gave him
Speaking after Liverpool’s 3-1 win over LASK in their opening group game in the Europa League, Gravenberch revealed that his new manager gave him some almost heartwarming advice ahead of his first start for the Reds. Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, the Netherlands international revealed: “Yesterday after training he came to me and said feel free. You can do whatever you want, of course you have to do your things.”
So, while holding responsibilities over some parts of the game, the talented midfielder was allowed to express himself on the pitch and this point was hit home further as he continued to speak of Klopp’s advice further: “He just said feel free and show yourself and the Ryan you are.
It is a nice touch from the manager, who is known to be very encouraging of his players. The words also seemed to have the desired effect as Gravenberch put in a strong showing on his debut.
Gravenberch shows signs of promise on Europa League debut
After being brought on as a late substitute against Wolves in the Premier League, the new man was let off the leash from the very start of the first European game of the campaign. While the game got off to a poor start and the Reds found themselves a goal behind, the second-half of the game was a different story.
There were a few loose touches and stray passes, but in general, the former Ajax man showed an ability to pick the ball up in the middle of the park and drive his team forward. He won several fouls and linked up well with his new teammates, as Liverpool got themselves back into the game.
A Darwin Núñez penalty brought the score back level, before a lung-busting run down the right wing saw Gravenberch in a position to fire a pinpoint cross into the penalty area for Luis Diaz to fire home. A first assist for the club is not a bad way to kick off your career at a new club.
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