Ryan Gravenberch has revealed that he enjoys more freedom in Liverpool’s midfield this season, a shift that has coincided with a strong start to the Premier League campaign and the immediate impact of summer signings Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak.
The Netherlands international scored the opening goal in Liverpool’s hard-fought 2-1 victory over Everton at Anfield on Saturday, with Ekitike also finding the net in a Merseyside derby that tested both teams physically and mentally.
Gravenberch’s goal, his second of the season, highlighted the attacking impetus that he has now been given under Arne Slot’s system.
Having played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s Premier League title-winning campaign last season, Gravenberch has been entrusted with additional responsibilities in 2025-26.
“The coach has given me the confidence, and this season we have more freedom in the midfield,” he told TNT Sports. “Last season I was only the No.6 and now I can go more forward, which is what you’ve seen today. I think my strength is also there, so I’m happy with that and also with the goal.”
Tactically, this shift sees Gravenberch operating between traditional defensive midfield duties and a more advanced box-to-box role. Whereas last season he was primarily tasked with shielding the back four and recycling possession, Slot now encourages him to carry the ball into attacking positions, linking up with wingers and strikers.
Liverpool’s transfer activity has also contributed to Gravenberch’s newfound freedom. The arrivals of Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak provide Slot with options up front, reducing the burden on individual attacking players and allowing midfielders like Gravenberch to push higher up the pitch.
“We know we have a good group, they [Liverpool] have bought players as well, really good players, so we know it’s not only the starting XI, it’s the whole team,” Gravenberch said. “We are like a family, so we push each other. You see, for example, Hugo [Ekitike] scored today and [Alexander] Isak comes in and gives his all. So I’m really happy with the squad.”
Ekitike’s early-season contributions have injected a sense of dynamism into Liverpool’s forward line. His movement off the ball and instinctive finishing complement Gravenberch’s ability to drive from midfield, while Isak offers a different attacking dimension, capable of holding up play and linking with wide players.
Together, they give Slot multiple tactical permutations, allowing Liverpool to shift between a high-pressing approach, fast transitions, and fluid positional rotations.
Gravenberch’s comments underscore not just individual growth but the broader culture of internal competition at Liverpool. By fostering a “family” environment while maintaining high standards, Slot has created a squad in which every player starter or substitute pushes teammates to perform.
This collective ethos is particularly important given the physical and tactical demands of a congested Premier League schedule and as the season unfolds, Gravenberch’s expanded role may prove decisive in Liverpool’s quest to defend their title.
