Awful performance: Liverpool's €100m deal set to fail

This is unsustainable. Liverpool simply will not get anywhere with their midfield if they’re entirely incapable of battling in games like this.

Because it isn’t an anomaly. Gravenberch sits in the 32nd percentile for defensive contributions among midfielders. He simply won’t bring any bite there and that problem is greatly exacerbated if his midfield partner also doesn’t contribute.

It creates a weak midfield and one that will cause that €100m investment to fail dramatically unless some sort of fix is found.

Ryan Gravenberch: Situation Summary

Liverpool Performance and Stats

As of 4 May 2026, Ryan Gravenberch remains a central figure in Liverpool’s midfield, though his form has fluctuated compared to his award-winning 2024/25 campaign. The 23-year-old has made 46 appearances across all competitions this season, contributing five goals and six assists. Despite signing a new six-year contract in March 2026—reportedly worth £277,000 per week—his performances in a deeper "number six" role have drawn criticism for a perceived lack of sharpness. He played the full 90 minutes in a 3–0 defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford on 3 May, following a brief substitute appearance in the win over Crystal Palace. He currently maintains an average FotMob rating of 7.25.

Transfer and Squad Outlook

While Gravenberch is tied to the club until 2032, reports suggest Arne Slot is seeking a specialized defensive midfielder this summer to "unlock" his compatriot’s offensive potential. Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller has been linked as a potential partner who would allow Gravenberch to move further forward.

International Standing

Gravenberch is considered a "guaranteed" selection for Ronald Koeman’s Netherlands squad for the 2026 World Cup this June. However, he recently faced public criticism from Koeman following a friendly win over Norway, with the manager accusing him of defensive lapses in the lead-up to an opposition goal.