Premier League
Liverpool Fans Are Starting To Get Concerned About £150k p/w Star After Wolves Display
Arne Slot’s arrival at Anfield has sparked a complete transformation in Ryan Gravenberch, who now looks every bit a complete number six and a vital cog in his new manager’s system.
Originally brought in by Jurgen Klopp two summers ago, the Dutchman has seemingly become the beginning, middle, and end of Liverpool’s defensive midfield conundrum.
What was once seen as the Reds’ weakest link – prompting a pursuit of Martin Zubimendi – now appears a problem solved. However, a new concern has emerged: just how much more Gravenberch can endure in Liverpool’s grueling February schedule. With fixture congestion piling up, the Anfield faithful are calling for Slot to give the former Ajax wonderkid a well-earned breather.
Against Wolves, the 22-year-old looked like a shadow of his usual self as Liverpool clung to their 2-1 lead at Anfield. But a deeper dive into his workload this season makes it clear that his recent dip in form is more fatigue than flaw.
Concerns Raised Over Ryan Gravenberch
Gravenberch has been one of two players to reap the rewards of his compatriot’s arrival at Liverpool, alongside Cody Gakpo, who’s flourished since returning to his natural left-wing role. However, unlike his attacking counterpart, the defensive midfielder has rarely had the luxury of a rest, thanks to the lack of depth in his position.
In the 2023/24 season, while Alexis Mac Allister took on the primary number six role, Gravenberch played only 1,121 Premier League minutes. This stands in sharp contrast to this season, where he’s already logged 2,139 minutes in the league, with 14 games still to play.
Easily one of the best midfielders in the world right now, it’s crystal clear to see why Slot has given so much time to Gravenberch, especially since his position has become one of the most important on the pitch.
The confidence and calmness of his displays in the engine room, complemented by his running power that is very reminiscent of a certain Yaya Toure and neat spins reflective of old Anfield favourite Thiago Alcantara, have been a breath of fresh air.
Against Wolves, Gravenberch’s performance seemed like a silent plea for relief. Even the strongest engines need a pit stop, and after committing three fouls, winning just five of his 11 duels, being dispossessed twice, and failing to win a single tackle, it was clear his energy reserves had been drained. The Dutchman’s shields were down in his latest appearance, leaving Liverpool fans urging for him to be rested. Thankfully, a solution is only as far away as the bench.
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**Title:** Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic **Meta Description:** Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia head coach for a second spell after Zlatko Dalic stepped down following the 2026 World Cup. **Slug:** croatia-confirm-slaven-bilic-return-head-coach **Alt Image Text:** Slaven Bilic during his unveiling as Croatia national team head coach — # Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic Croatia have officially confirmed the return of Slaven Bilic as head coach, with the former West Ham United manager replacing Zlatko Dalic following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bilic returns to the national team after more than a decade away, ending a two-year absence from management as he begins a second spell in charge of his country. ## Bilic begins a second spell with Croatia The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) announced Bilic’s appointment after the Executive Committee unanimously approved the recommendation of federation president Marijan Kustic. Bilic previously managed Croatia between 2006 and 2012, guiding the national team through two European Championships before embarking on a successful club coaching career that included spells with West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Besiktas and Al-Ittihad. The federation believes his experience and deep understanding of Croatian football make him the ideal candidate to lead the next generation. ## Huge task replacing Zlatko Dalic Bilic succeeds one of the most successful managers in Croatia’s history. Dalic stepped down after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable tenure that included a World Cup final, a World Cup semi-final and several memorable tournament campaigns. Federation president Marijan Kustic acknowledged the size of the challenge but expressed complete confidence in Bilic. > “I would like to once again thank Zlatko for the exceptional results he achieved during his tenure. It is not easy to follow in his footsteps, but we are convinced Slaven is the right person for this role.” Kustic added that Bilic’s international pedigree and extensive coaching experience were decisive factors behind the appointment. ## Bilic honoured to return Bilic described his return as the greatest honour of his coaching career and admitted he understands the expectations that come with leading one of international football’s most consistent tournament teams. > “I would like to thank President Kustic and the Federation’s leadership for the confidence they have shown in allowing me to lead the Croatian national team once again — the greatest honour for any Croatian coach.” The 57-year-old also praised the standards established under Dalic while insisting he is ready for the responsibility. > “I am fully aware of the high expectations that follow such a remarkable period under Zlatko Dalic, but anyone who takes charge of Croatia must be prepared for that because we are a football nation that lives and breathes its national team.” ## A new chapter begins Bilic now faces the task of building on Dalic’s legacy while preparing Croatia for the next international cycle. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging young talent at his disposal, Croatia will hope their returning manager can guide them to another successful era on the international stage.
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