Ryan Gravenberch’s journey with Liverpool has been nothing short of remarkable, seamlessly fitting into Jurgen Klopp’s system and demonstrating his prowess with two goals and as many assists in 12 appearances for the club.
However, the midfielder’s initial decision to decline a call-up to the Netherlands U21 team post his move to Anfield stirred controversy, leading to his omission from both under-21 and senior national squads.
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Declining the U21 Call-Up
Gravenberch’s choice to prioritize settling into his new Liverpool surroundings over joining the Netherlands U21 team after his transfer became a pivotal moment.
Former Everton manager Ronald Koeman, now at the helm of the Dutch national team, expressed his displeasure and promptly excluded Gravenberch from future selections.
This decision cast a shadow over the young midfielder’s international prospects. Despite Koeman’s initial discontent, he later hinted at a path to reconciliation, emphasizing that Gravenberch could play his way back into contention.
Gravenberch’s Club Triumphs
At Anfield, Gravenberch has seamlessly integrated into Jurgen Klopp’s system, contributing two goals and as many assists in 12 appearances.
A minor injury setback temporarily interrupted his progress, but a return is anticipated for the pivotal clash against Manchester City on November 25.
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Optimism Amidst Disagreements
Danzell dismisses past disagreements as resolved, emphasizing that Ryan, though not there yet, will naturally find his way back into the national picture.
The key, according to Danzell, lies in Ryan continuing to enjoy and excel at his game. The SC Telstar striker told SoccerNews.nl. :
“There were some disagreements, but that has now been resolved.
Ryan is not there yet, but if he just continues as he is doing, it will happen naturally. He just has to do his thing and hope he gets back into the picture.
Just enjoy playing football, the same as me actually. He’s doing nicely and starting to get his rhythm.
Now he has to get on with it and everything will be fine. I watch all his matches on television.”
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The Issues…
Upon joining Liverpool on deadline day, Gravenberch prioritized acclimatization over a Netherlands U21 call-up, leading to exclusion from both senior and U21 squads in subsequent international breaks.
However, it seems as if his exile is no more after Netherlands Under-21 manager, Michael Reiziger, recently claimed it is “no longer a punishment”:
“This is no longer a punishment or anything, not at all. That is already behind us.”
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Gravenberch’s international journey has been a rollercoaster, marked by controversies and disagreements.
However, with success at Liverpool and indications of reconciliation with the Dutch setup, the midfielder’s future on the international stage seems poised for a triumphant return.
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