Ryan Gravenberch’s return to the Netherlands national team has been a remarkable turnaround after a season of being left out. The Liverpool midfielder was initially dropped from consideration after rejecting a call-up to the Netherlands U21s in September. This decision was met with disappointment, but after a visit from Nigel de Jong, the technical director for the Dutch FA, the matter was deemed “over” by manager Ronald Koeman.
In an interview with Algemeen Dagblad, Gravenberch explained his decision, stating that he believed it was necessary at the time. Having already wasted a season at Bayern Munich, he wanted to focus on settling into his new club at Liverpool and felt that he couldn’t afford any distractions. He had a conversation with Koeman, and both parties agreed to put the issue behind them.
Gravenberch’s involvement in the national team comes after an impressive season with Liverpool, where he made 38 appearances. However, he was mainly used as a squad player, starting only 21 games, with 12 of those in the Premier League. With Marten de Roon’s injury ruling him out of the Euros and concerns over Frenkie de Jong’s fitness, Gravenberch’s chances of playing a more significant role have increased.
The Liverpool midfielder expressed his surprise at being called up after such a long absence from the national team. However, he always had the feeling that they had him in their sights. The fact that Koeman visited him at Liverpool further reinforced this belief. Gravenberch acknowledged that De Roon’s injury is unfortunate for him but acknowledged that it does increase his own chances of going to Germany for the tournament. With an extra spot now available in midfield, Gravenberch has an opportunity to prove himself on the international stage.
Netherlands will have two warm-up friendlies against Canada and Iceland before facing Poland, France, and Austria in Group D of the Euros. Gravenberch’s inclusion in the squad adds depth and versatility to the team’s midfield options. Whether he will be a squad player or a first-choice starter remains to be seen, but his return to the national team is a testament to his talent and the trust placed in him by the coaching staff.