Ryan Gravenberch: From Bayern Struggles to Premier League Key Player in 2026

Ryan Gravenberch’s Journey from Bayern Munich to Liverpool

Ryan Gravenberch had a tough time at Bayern Munich, struggling for game time during his single season there in 2022-23, making just 33 appearances. Despite the rough patch in Germany, he emerged as one of the Premier League’s standout midfielders during Liverpool’s title-winning campaign in 2024-25. Former Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann shared his perspective on where the Dutch international stands now in 2026.

The Ajax Prodigy Who Faced Challenges at Bayern

Gravenberch came through the renowned Ajax academy and made history as their youngest-ever player in the Eredivisie at 16 years and 130 days old. His promise earned him a move to Bayern Munich in 2022, but regular starts were rare, limiting his impact. This lack of playing time contributed to missing out on the World Cup.

Rise at Liverpool and Mixed Recent Performances

Arriving at Liverpool still seen as a major prospect, Gravenberch became a key figure under manager Arne Slot, helping the team secure another Premier League title in 2024-25. He played nearly every game that season. However, last season (2025-26) was less successful for Liverpool, finishing fifth without trophies. Questions arose about whether Gravenberch is being used correctly, especially regarding his role protecting the defense ahead of Virgil van Dijk.

Hamann’s Take on Gravenberch’s Current Status

“I think in between, probably a bit closer to where he was in the title-winning season,” said Hamann when asked about Gravenberch's current form. “He came to Munich and for some reason he didn’t get game time and he missed out on the World Cup. At Liverpool, he was an absolute sensation a couple of seasons back.”

Hamann noted last season’s difficulties, mentioning internal team issues like the Mohamed Salah saga and injuries to key signings such as Alexander Isak. He explained the challenge of assessing Gravenberch's contributions because the effectiveness of those he supplies passes to—like Florian Wirtz or Salah—impacts how his performances are viewed.

“If you give them balls, if you do something good, they don’t do anything really, then people will say, ‘what did Gravenberch actually do?’ But if they scored after his pass, it started with him,” added Hamann.

He also acknowledged that both Gravenberch and teammate Alexis Mac Allister had inconsistent moments but praised Gravenberch as a strong, intelligent player with defensive awareness.

Looking Ahead: Gravenberch’s Role in Liverpool’s Future

Gravenberch featured in Liverpool’s first match of the 2026-27 Premier League season against Newcastle and appeared briefly in the 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest. With new coach Andoni Iraola still shaping his squad, the Dutch midfielder is expected to be part of the core as Liverpool seeks stability and better results.

• Upcoming fixture: Ipswich Town vs Liverpool, 4 September 2026, 21:00

Gravenberch's blend of energy and skill could prove vital as Liverpool aims to return to its former heights.