Ryan Gravenberch: Liverpool’s Pivotal Force, Zubimendi’s Unnoticed Exit, and Arne Slot’s Dutch Void

Title: How Liverpool’s Missed Signing Becake a Blessing in Disguise

(Images: Martin Zubimendi (left) and Ryan Gravenberch (right) in action for their clubs)

Last summer, panic rippled through Anfield when primary midfield target Martin Zubimendi rejected Liverpool’s advances. The Spanish Euro 2024 winner, seemingly swayed by Real Sociedad’s picturesque landscapes and culinary allure, opted to stay in Spain despite a verbal agreement to join the Reds. With Arne Slot’s squad lacking reinforcements, fears grew that Liverpool’s title hopes would crumble without a defensive midfield maestro. Critics pointed to Manchester City’s reliance on Rodri as proof: without a world-class No. 6, even giants stumble.

(Image: Zubimendi training with Real Sociedad in 2024)

The Unexpected Hero
Fast forward a year, and Liverpool silenced doubters by winning the Premier League – without Zubimendi. Instead, Slot unearthed a gem already in the squad: Ryan Gravenberch. The Dutchman, once an underwhelming benchwarmer, transformed into the league’s Young Player of the Season, anchoring Liverpool’s midfield. His 37 starts showcased a unique blend of press-resistant dribbling and tactical intelligence, proving instrumental in their title charge. In the lone league game he missed, Liverpool lost 3-1.

(Image: Gravenberch celebrating a tackle in Premier League action)

Stats Show a Tight Contest
Gravenberch’s rise makes Sunday’s clash with Arsenal – now Zubimendi’s club – a fascinating duel. A statistical comparison reveals near-parity:

• Gravenberch: More duels won (5.23 per 90), chances created (0.74), and interceptions.
• Zubimendi: Superior tackles, aerial duels, and touches in the opposition box.

Slot praised both, noting: “We wanted Zubimendi’s composure, but Ryan brings that and defensive grit.” While Zubimendi thrived at La Real, Gravenberch’s role in a title-winning team cements his case as a breakout star.

(Image: Slot gesturing from the touchline during a match)

Anfield’s Redemption Arc
Few Liverpool fans now lament missing Zubimendi. Gravenberch’s unflappable confidence and growth under Slot have been revelatory. His ability to wriggle out of tight spaces and dictate play evokes comparisons to midfield greats. Meanwhile, Zubimendi’s £60m move to Arsenal this summer adds intrigue, with the Spaniard eager to prove his worth in England.

(Image: Zubimendi in Arsenal colors during preseason training)

The Stakes on Sunday
Both clubs enter unbeaten this season. While Arsenal’s attack garners headlines, the midfield battle could decide the outcome. Gravenberch, now undroppable, faces his “what if” counterpart. A dominant performance from the Dutchman would further validate Liverpool’s faith. For Zubimendi, outshining Anfield’s hero offers a chance to rewrite the narrative.

As Slot quipped: “Ryan turned our problem into a solution.” On Sunday, the solution faces a fresh test.

(Image: Composite graphic of Gravenberch and Zubimendi with Premier League stats)

Final Thought
In football, missed targets often haunt clubs. For Liverpool, Zubimendi’s rejection paved the way for Gravenberch’s redemption – and maybe another title charge. When the whistle blows, only one midfielder will leave Anfield with bragging rights.

Word count: ~630 words
Images suggested: 4-5 key visuals of players, manager, and head-to-head stats