Ryan Gravenberch received high praise in the British media for his performance against Atlético Madrid. The Liverpool midfielder shone in the background. 'He is even more impressive.'
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On a night when the headlines could easily have been dominated by Alexander Isak’s long-awaited debut or another dramatic and chaotic Liverpool victory, it was Ryan Gravenberch who stole the show and reminded everyone why he is increasingly seen as one of the most complete midfielders in Europe.
Liverpool’s 3-2 win over Atlético Madrid at Anfield was packed with storylines: Salah scoring again in Europe, Atlético’s relentless pressure and fight until the final whistle, and Isak pulling on the Liverpool shirt for the very first time. But as the BBC noted, the “star of the show was a masterful performance from midfielder Gravenberch,” who not only influenced the game at both ends of the pitch but also showcased the maturity and consistency that are turning him into a cornerstone of Jürgen Klopp’s plans.
The British broadcaster emphasized how far the Dutchman has come since his suspension against Bournemouth in the season opener at Anfield. That early setback could have disrupted his rhythm, but instead, it seems to have fueled his determination. “After his suspension, he has reached an even higher level this season,” the BBC wrote, suggesting that his growth is not just about form, but about mentality. Gravenberch now looks like a player who understands the responsibility of playing for Liverpool and is thriving under the pressure of expectation.
The BBC compared his midfield display to that of a “Rolls-Royce,” a description often reserved for players who combine elegance with power. His surging runs through the center were impossible to ignore, repeatedly breaking Atlético’s defensive lines. He paired that with sharp, perfectly timed tackles that broke up dangerous counterattacks, showing that his defensive work rate is just as important as his technical brilliance. Add to that a passing range that stretched the play and opened up spaces for Salah and Isak, and the performance was close to flawless.
Henry Winter, one of the most authoritative voices in English football journalism, also paid tribute to Gravenberch’s performance. On X, Winter praised his box-to-box contribution, underlining how he not only wins the ball but uses it effectively, transforming defensive recoveries into attacking opportunities. “Already an assist,” Winter noted, while also highlighting his tactical discipline, especially his awareness in covering for Dominik Szoboszlai when the Hungarian pushed forward. This balance between creativity and discipline is what makes Gravenberch so valuable in a Liverpool side that thrives on high tempo but also requires defensive solidity. Winter concluded by stressing that at just 23 years old, Gravenberch is still developing a frightening prospect for opponents across Europe.
The Liverpool Echo, meanwhile, translated his influence into numbers, awarding him the joint-highest rating of the match alongside Florian Wirtz, with a score of 8. Their breakdown of his performance was equally glowing: he earned the free kick that led to the opening goal, showcased superb vision to combine with teammates and set Salah free for the second, and maintained a dazzling rhythm throughout the entire ninety minutes. Importantly, they stressed that his level did not dip in the second half, even as the pace of the game intensified and Atlético pushed harder. That consistency is a sign of both physical preparation and the mental focus required to perform at the highest level.
Yet, while Gravenberch was the standout, this night also marked the beginning of Alexander Isak’s Liverpool career. The Swedish striker, who joined this summer for a record fee from Newcastle United, was under the microscope as fans and pundits wondered how quickly he could adapt to Klopp’s high-energy football. After weeks of training separately to build up his fitness, he finally stepped onto the Anfield pitch for his debut. Manager Arne Slot could not hide his delight afterward. “He was fitter than I expected and can clearly play at this level,” Slot said, describing him as “a joy to watch.” While Isak lasted only sixty minutes, his movement, link-up play, and willingness to press set an encouraging tone for what could come in the weeks ahead.
Liverpool’s 3-2 victory over Atlético Madrid was therefore more than just another dramatic Champions League night at Anfield. It was a statement of depth, resilience, and evolution. Salah remains a talisman, Isak offers promise as a record signing, and Gravenberch has emerged as the beating heart of the midfield, a player who connects defense and attack with authority and grace. For supporters, this match was not just about three points it was about glimpsing the future of a team in transition, where established stars and rising talents are combining to write the next chapter of Liverpool’s European story.
If Gravenberch continues at this level, it will not be long before the label of “unsung hero” is discarded entirely. Instead, he will be recognized as one of the central figures driving Liverpool toward both domestic and continental glory.
Updated: 11:08, 18 Sep 2025
