One of the biggest tactical questions facing Liverpool this season is how Andoni Iraola intends to use Ryan Gravenberch.
The Dutch midfielder has all the attributes to become one of Liverpool’s most influential players.
But exactly where he fits into Iraola’s system remains one of the most intriguing questions ahead of the new campaign.
Not a Traditional No. 6
Last season, Gravenberch often found himself operating as Liverpool’s deepest midfielder.
At times he looked outstanding.
At others, he appeared exposed defensively, particularly against teams who attacked quickly through the middle.
The role demanded enormous positional discipline and defensive awareness.
While Gravenberch has improved significantly, asking him to play as a traditional holding midfielder does not necessarily maximise his greatest strengths.
His Biggest Weapon Is Ball Carrying
Few midfielders in the Premier League can glide past opponents quite like Gravenberch.
His ability to receive the ball under pressure, turn away from challenges and carry possession 20 or 30 yards up the pitch is exceptional.
Those powerful forward runs instantly change the momentum of attacks.
Rather than simply recycling possession, Gravenberch drives Liverpool forward.
That is a rare quality.
A Perfect Box-to-Box Midfielder?
Iraola’s football could suit him perfectly.
Rather than sitting in front of the defence all game, Gravenberch may be given licence to operate as a dynamic No. 8.
That role would allow him to:
- Win the ball higher up the pitch.
- Drive through midfield with possession.
- Support attacks.
- Press aggressively after losing the ball.
- Arrive late in the penalty area.
Those responsibilities seem far more aligned with his natural game.
The Ideal Midfield Balance
Liverpool now possess several midfielders with different strengths.
Alexis Mac Allister offers control and intelligence.
Dominik Szoboszlai brings relentless energy.
Florian Wirtz provides creativity.
Gravenberch offers power and progression.
The challenge for Iraola is finding the right balance.
One possibility would be using Mac Allister as the deeper organiser while allowing Gravenberch greater freedom to attack.
That combination could prove extremely effective.
A Different Type of Press
Iraola demands intensity from every player.
Gravenberch’s athleticism makes him perfectly suited to that approach.
Instead of protecting the back four from deep, he may spend more time pressing opponents high up the pitch and immediately carrying Liverpool into dangerous positions after turnovers.
That would reduce the defensive burden while allowing him to influence games where he is most dangerous.
This Could Be His Best Season Yet
Gravenberch is now entering the stage of his career where potential must become consistency.
The talent has never been in doubt.
Now he needs a system that allows him to express it every week.
I genuinely believe Andoni Iraola could be the manager who unlocks the very best version of Ryan Gravenberch.
If Liverpool use him as an aggressive, box-to-box midfielder rather than asking him to anchor the midfield alone, supporters may finally see why he was regarded as one of Europe’s brightest young talents.
And if that happens, Gravenberch could become one of the first names on Iraola’s team sheet this season.
Jamie (The Kopite View)
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