Liverpool's Iraola under pressure as Dutchman Gravenberch falters
Dutch midfielder Ryan Gravenberch is confronting the toughest spell of his Liverpool career as manager Andoni Iraola questions his suitability in the Anfield midfield, while the Dutchman’s recent performances for the Netherlands have drawn harsh criticism from both national media and former star Ruud Gullit.
From Klopp to Slot: role shift
Jurgen Klopp signed the 24‑year‑old from Bayern Munich and initially deployed him in a more attacking capacity. Under Arne Slot, however, Gravenberch was repositioned into a defensive‑minded role at Anfield, a change that altered his responsibilities on the pitch. The shift meant the former Ajax graduate had to adapt to new tactical demands while retaining his technical qualities.
Form slump in 2025/26 season
In Slot’s debut campaign the Dutchman thrived, contributing to Liverpool’s Premier League triumph. The following 2025/26 season proved far tougher, with the side slipping to a fifth‑place finish and the owners, Fenway Sports Group, installing a new management structure. Gravenberch’s influence waned as the club struggled to replicate earlier success.
Midfield exclusion under Iraola
Only a few games into Andoni Iraola’s tenure, Gravenberch found himself omitted from the starting eleven against Nottingham Forest, Ipswich Town and Bournemouth, receiving merely a nine‑minute cameo versus the Cherries. The Spaniard appears to favour Alexis Mac Allister as the preferred partner for Dominik Szoboszlai in the engine room. Consequently, Gravenberch must prove his defensive contributions match the standards set by his teammates.
To regain a first‑team place, Gravenberch must persuade Iraola that his defensive contributions match the standards set by his teammates. The battle is heightened by the presence of fellow Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders, who also struggled to cement a role, and by the competition for places with Szoboszlai.
Dutch media and Gullit’s criticism
Back home, the Dutchman’s form has drawn scathing commentary. Former star Ruud Gullit told, “Gravenberch isn’t comfortable, and neither is Reijnders. It just doesn’t click. In principle, he is the best, and he has shown that. But he isn’t playing at the required level. And neither is Reijnders. It looks like they can’t play football together.” awarded Gravenberch a 5/5/10 rating, noting he “lost his starting place at Liverpool” and appeared “timid” for the national side. Voetbalzone were even harsher, giving him a 5/10 score and Reijnders a 4.5, branding both with “little involvement in the game”.
The Netherlands, now guided by Xavi Hernández, have collected four points from their opening two Nations League fixtures, including a 2‑1 victory over Serbia where Gravenberch featured alongside former Man City player Reijnders. Yet the criticism persists, and the next few internationals will reveal whether the midfielder can rediscover his earlier dominance.
Meanwhile, Liverpool have been linked with a move for Bournemouth’s Alex Scott, with sources claiming a clear pathway to the signing. In addition, the Reds are reportedly emerging as favourites to secure a highly‑rated Uruguayan winger for a substantial fee, suggesting the club remains active in the transfer market despite Gravenberch’s uncertain future.