Former Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara has backed Ryan Gravenberch to play a big role for the team this season.
Thiago, who called time on his playing career in the summer after his contract at Anfield expired, returned to Merseyside for Saturday’s 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest to see his first view of life under new coach Arne Slot.
Although the result may have been disappointing LiverpoolNetherlands international Gravenberch has been widely praised for another impressive individual performance, having quietly established himself as a key part of Slot’s new midfield, and Thiago was quick to praise Gravenberch.
“All great players must gain experience, they must adapt to the different circumstances they have in a game,” explained Thiago. “(Gravenberch) is doing that and getting better at that position.
“At times, as a number six, you can see he flows a lot in midfield and it’s quite good to see how he gets involved and adapts to that position.
“He’s a smart kid, so he’ll adapt quickly to the moments of the game and whatever the coach says. He’s done that.
“The three in midfield are unbelievably good, not just him, but also Macca (Alexis Mac Allister) and Dom (Szoboszlai). Being surrounded by good players also makes you a better player.”
Thiago also admitted before the game how excited he was for his first taste of the Anfield atmosphere as a fan.
“It’s always been a goal to be in this stadium not only as a player but also as a fan,” he said. average club. “I had the fortune – life gave me the opportunity – to be here for four years as a football player. I think it was also one of the best moments of my life.
“Now I have the opportunity to receive such a warm welcome from the fans, and also from the players. It’s a great time to be here.”
