Anfield witnessed a night of brilliance as Ryan Gravenberch delivered a performance that had even rival legends in awe. After Liverpool’s thrilling Champions League victory over Atletico Madrid, former Manchester United and England icon Wayne Rooney could not hold back his admiration for the Dutch midfielder.
Speaking in glowing terms, Rooney confessed: “God, I can’t lie, I couldn’t take my eyes off Gravenberch the whole game. He was everything you’d ever want in a player, and I found myself watching with a smile on my face. He was ridiculously good. Yesterday against Atletico Madrid, he wasn’t just the best player on the pitch—he’s been Liverpool’s best player since the start of this season. If I ever had the chance to come out of retirement just to play alongside him, I wouldn’t even think twice.”
Gravenberch, who arrived at Anfield with high expectations, has rapidly grown into a midfield powerhouse under Arne Slot, combining energy, vision, and technical ability. Against Diego Simeone’s notoriously difficult side, he dominated the midfield battle, dictating play and driving Liverpool forward at every opportunity.
Fans were equally impressed, flooding social media with praise for the Dutchman’s display. Many hailed it as one of the finest Champions League performances by a Liverpool midfielder in recent years, with tweets celebrating his composure, intelligence, and relentless work rate.
Rooney’s remarks carry extra weight, given his storied career at Manchester United. For him to openly call Gravenberch Liverpool’s best player this season highlights just how far the 22-year-old has come in such a short time.
Liverpool supporters now believe Gravenberch could be the key to their European charge this season, with many calling him the heartbeat of Slot’s midfield.
From Old Trafford to Anfield respect—Wayne Rooney’s praise proves Ryan Gravenberch is the real deal.