“Might just be the greatest footballer I’ve ever seen” - Liverpool fans in awe of 22-year-old star after 3-0 win against Bournemouth
Liverpool fans are in awe of 22-year-old Ryan Gravenberch after the Dutch midfielder exceeded expectations in their 3-0 win over Bournemouth. Both sides faced each other at Anfield in the Premier League on Saturday, September 21.
It was a first-half masterclass in attack, as Liverpool secured three points within 45 minutes. Luis Diaz scored twice in two minutes (26', 28') before Darwin Nunez curled in their third goal in the 37th minute.
While it was an impressive overall performance from the hosts, Gravenberch stood out as one of the best players on the day. He might not have put his name on the scoresheet or provided an assist, but the midfielder was ruthless in the middle of the park.
He was near unbeatable, winning an impressive seven duels and two tackles while making a total of six defensive actions. He recycled possession consistently, making 95 touches on the ball and generally looking to impact the game in all areas.
His hard work was recognized by the fans, who took to social media to praise the midfielder with posts like these:
"I’m not one for hyperbole, but Ryan Gravenberch might just be the greatest footballer I’ve ever seen," one fan claimed.
"It’s going to take some disaster for Gravenberch at 22 to not become one of the best midfielders in the world. Making the most physical league in the world look like it’s walking pace." another fan said.
"Gravenberch is even the one we should be praising tbh, he's singlehandedly covering up the errors of the summer transfer window." a third noted.
"Ryan Gravenberch is like if the version of Pogba that exists exclusively in the heads of United fans was actually real," another mocked Manchester United fans.
"Gravenberch is phenomenal, I’m lost for words," a fifth was stunned.
"Gravenberch is actually nuts I can’t believe this is our midfielder," another added.
"The fact Gravenberch is still only 22 years old is mental to me," a fan said.
"When are we going to have a serious talk about Gravenberch? Genuinely looks like the best midfielder in the league right now. He has it all." another fan was full of praise.
"Ryan Gravenberch has learnt how to use his body defensively. Rodri, watch out." another said.
Darwin Nunez impresses Liverpool head coach Arne Slot
Ryan Gravenberch impressed against Bournemouth, and so did Darwin Nunez, who scored their third goal of the game with a beautiful curler on his left foot. The striker began the passage of play, heading down a clearance to Mohamed Salah, before receiving the return pass.
One might have thought he would pass the ball into Salah again, as the Egyptian winger was free in the area, but Nunez went for goal and struck well. Liverpool head coach Arne Slot spoke about the goal after the game, telling the press (via Liverpool World):
“My first instinct when he shot was: ‘Why does he shoot, why don’t you keep on dribbling?’ because he made the ball free and I think the defender was on the ground.
"But then a fraction of a second later, when I saw the ball went in off the post, I was like: ‘OK, maybe you are a better football player than I was in the past’. Good choice from him.”
Darwin Nunez has now scored his first goal for Liverpool this season, and the striker will look to keep banging them in.