Gravenberch vs. Rodri: Can Liverpool’s midfield star eclipse Man City’s maestro?
Liverpool’s latest Premier League win over Wolves showcased yet another impressive performance from Ryan Gravenberch, with the Dutch midfielder being compared with Manchester City’s midfield maestro Rodri.
After getting praises from the boss Arne Slot, Gravenberch is emerging as a key figure in Liverpool’s midfield this season. While playing alongside Alexis Mac Allister he is consistently showing his versatility on the pitch.
The 22-year-old has already earned comparisons to Premier League legends like Patrick Vieira from pundits such as Jamie Carragher. But don’t stop there. The Dutch is now drawing attention for his defensive midfield performances.
However, despite Gravenberch’s strong form, former footballer Owen Hargreaves believes the Dutchman may not be destined to become Liverpool’s version of Manchester City’s Rodri, who is widely regarded as one of the best defensive midfielders in world football.
Can Gravenberch match the levels of Rodri?
Speaking on Premier League Productions, the former Liverpool star praised Gravenberch for his recent displays but noted that the former Bayern Munich star is not a true specialist in the defensive role, much like Rodri is for City.
Hargreaves pointed out:
“He has done brilliantly well, but he is not a defensive midfield player, which is fine because when you are playing teams like this. He is 190cm. He is 22-years-old, he has got everything. But he is not a specialist defensive midfield player.
There is a difference. I think he is a brilliant midfield player, box to box depending on who you play, but I think in a big game, is a one-off game to go and win the Premier League or the Champions League, I think you need a specialist. Liverpool showed that with Fabinho and City showed that with Rodri.”
While Hargreaves’ comments indicate that Gravenberch may not be the long-term solution to fill the void left by Fabinho’s departure. But the former Ajax star might offer something even more valuable to Liverpool.
Gravenberch’s all-around skillset, combined with his physical attributed and versatility, makes him an exciting prospect who can operate in a variety of roles.
Under Slot’s guidance, Gravenberch is already showing that he can thrive in different midfield positions and there is every chance the Dutchman could develop into a superstar for Liverpool.
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