Anfield Index
·27 Januari 2025
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·27 Januari 2025
Liverpool’s dominant 4-1 victory over Ipswich Town was yet another example of the team’s renewed resilience and style under Arne Slot. Beyond the collective success, Virgil van Dijk’s glowing praise for Ryan Gravenberch provided a deeper insight into the club’s evolution this season,as reported by LFC.
Gravenberch, in his second season at Anfield, has emerged as a crucial figure in Liverpool’s midfield. Starting every Premier League and Champions League match so far, the young Dutchman has thrived in a deeper-lying role, demonstrating poise, vision, and an unrelenting work ethic.
Photo: IMAGO
Van Dijk’s comments encapsulated Gravenberch’s growth:
“This year he has got the trust and the confidence. He can show his quality week in, week out and every few days. I am very impressed with him… The consistency he is showing, he is a world-class player and he can only get better.”
Photo: IMAGO
Arne Slot’s tactical adjustments have allowed Gravenberch to flourish, with his ability to control the game from deep and adapt to high-pressure situations proving invaluable. His presence has helped Liverpool secure a six-point lead at the top of the Premier League and progress to the Champions League last 16 with a match to spare.
While Gravenberch’s performances anchor the midfield, Cody Gakpo’s attacking prowess continues to impress. The Dutch forward was instrumental in the Ipswich victory, delivering a cross for Mohamed Salah’s goal before adding two of his own.
Photo: IMAGO
“He is an outstanding professional with exceptional qualities and he is showing it on a consistent basis,” said Van Dijk.
Gakpo’s ability to combine technical skill with relentless energy, alongside competition from Luis Díaz, exemplifies Liverpool’s strength in depth this season.
Liverpool fans have every reason to be pleased with the transformation of Ryan Gravenberch. His rise from a sporadically used player last season to a midfield lynchpin this term is testament to both his talent and Slot’s management.
Supporters will especially relish Van Dijk’s words about Gravenberch’s potential to become even better. It’s a sign that Liverpool aren’t just succeeding now but building for the future with players like him at the heart of their plans.
The form of Cody Gakpo further underscores the optimism. His consistency in attack, paired with fierce competition from Díaz, ensures Liverpool have reliable options as they push for silverware. Slot’s ability to rotate without losing quality bodes well for the season’s most critical phases.
That said, fans know the margins at the top of the Premier League are fine. While Gravenberch and Gakpo’s performances are rightly celebrated, maintaining this level across all competitions will be the ultimate test.
Still, this Liverpool side, guided by Slot’s philosophy, looks capable of rising to the challenge. With Gravenberch’s evolution and Gakpo’s excellence, the future at Anfield feels brighter than ever.