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Virgil van Dijk lays down new Ryan Gravenberch Liverpool challenge – ‘Form of his life’

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Virgil van Dijk has heaped praise on fellow Dutchman Ryan Gravenberch, describing him as being in the “form of his life” after another standout performance in Liverpool’s victory over Everton in the Merseyside derby. The midfielder was at the heart of everything good for the Reds, dictating play with composure, strength, and attacking intent, earning admiration from teammates, fans, and pundits alike.

 

The 22-year-old has steadily grown into his role since arriving at Anfield, but his display against Everton felt like a statement performance. Gravenberch was everywhere – breaking up play, driving the ball forward, and linking seamlessly with Liverpool’s front line. It was his clever positioning and relentless energy that helped the Reds control midfield, a zone that has so often defined these high-stakes derby encounters.

 

Van Dijk, who captained Liverpool on the day, was quick to highlight Gravenberch’s impact after the game. “He’s in the form of his life right now,” the defender said. “You can see the confidence he has, the way he’s carrying the ball, and the influence he has on the team. He’s enjoying his football, and we’re enjoying watching him.”

 

For Liverpool, Gravenberch’s emergence as a consistent force could not come at a better time. With the demands of competing on multiple fronts this season, manager Arne Slot needs players capable of stepping up in key moments, and the Dutch midfielder is increasingly proving he can do exactly that. His balance of physicality and technique gives Liverpool something different in midfield, bridging the gap between defensive stability and attacking creativity.

 

In the derby, his influence extended beyond just individual brilliance. Time and again, Gravenberch linked up with Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister, creating fluid patterns that pulled Everton out of shape. His ability to glide past markers and open up space ensured Liverpool maintained their attacking momentum throughout the match. Everton, despite their determination and physical approach, struggled to contain him.

 

What makes Gravenberch’s rise even more impressive is the journey he has taken. After leaving Ajax for Bayern Munich, he struggled for regular minutes in Germany, leading to questions about his development. But at Liverpool, he has found not just game time but also a system that plays to his strengths. Under Slot, he has been trusted with responsibility, and he is thriving on it.

 

For van Dijk, watching his younger compatriot flourish is a source of pride. The captain has often spoken about the importance of leadership and togetherness in the Liverpool squad, and Gravenberch’s growing influence is another example of how the team is evolving under its new manager.

 

The performance against Everton will go down as one of Gravenberch’s most complete displays in a Liverpool shirt. If, as van Dijk suggests, he truly is in the form of his life, then both player and club stand to benefit enormously. For the Anfield faithful, the sight of the young Dutchman dominating in midfield provides plenty of reason to be optimistic about what lies ahead this season.

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Premier League Football

Mikel Arteta has expressed his delight after revealing that William Saliba and some of his teammates were watching

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🗣️ Mikel Arteta has expressed his delight after revealing that William Saliba and some of his teammates were watching Atletico Madrid’s recent match on the team bus in preparation for Arsenal’s upcoming fixture. The Arsenal manager said he didn’t instruct the players to do it — the idea came entirely from them — and he couldn’t be happier with their attitude. Arteta praised their professionalism and commitment, saying that such initiative shows how focused and determined the squad is to succeed at the highest level.

He explained that facing a team like Atletico Madrid requires early preparation and understanding of their playing style, and seeing players like Saliba take that responsibility on their own reflects the strong mentality growing within the group. Arteta described it as a sign of maturity and leadership, noting that the team’s desire to learn and improve every day is what makes them special. The manager added that this self-driven approach is exactly what he wants from his squad — players who think ahead, stay engaged, and constantly push themselves. Arteta concluded by saying that this kind of initiative shows Arsenal are evolving into a team capable of competing with Europe’s best.

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Premier League Football

Liverpool 1–2 Manchester United

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nchester United regain the lead! It’s Liverpool 1–2 Manchester United in what has turned into a thrilling Premier League showdown at Anfield. Just when it looked like Liverpool had seized the momentum after equalizing, United struck back with another deadly counterattack.

The goal came from a moment of brilliance as Bruno Fernandes picked out Marcus Rashford with a pinpoint through ball. Rashford drove forward with pace and confidence before firing past Alisson to restore United’s advantage. The away fans erupted, while Liverpool were left stunned after all their hard work to level the game.

Arne Slot’s side continue to dominate possession and create chances, but United’s clinical edge on the counter has made the difference. Liverpool’s defence has struggled to contain United’s speed and precision in transition, and they’ll now have to dig deep once again.

With time still on the clock, the Reds will push for another comeback, relying on the energy of Anfield and the creativity of Salah and Núñez. Manchester United, meanwhile, will aim to hold their shape and protect the lead.

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Premier League Football

Liverpool 1–1 Manchester United

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Liverpool are level! It’s Liverpool 1–1 Manchester United after a thrilling response from the home side. The Reds came out firing in the second half, determined to make their dominance count — and they finally broke through. After sustained pressure and a series of dangerous attacks, Mohamed Salah found the equalizer with his trademark composure, smashing the ball past the keeper to ignite Anfield.

The goal was well deserved after Liverpool’s relentless push. Darwin Núñez played a key role in the build-up, holding off defenders before laying the ball perfectly into Salah’s path. The equalizer sent the crowd into a roar, completely shifting the momentum back in Liverpool’s favor.

Manchester United now find themselves on the back foot after defending bravely for much of the game. Erik ten Hag’s side will need to regroup quickly if they want to regain control. Meanwhile, Arne Slot’s men look hungry for more, pressing high and flooding forward with confidence.

The atmosphere at Anfield is electric — Liverpool are back in it, and both sides are fighting fiercely for the next big moment. Current score: Liverpool 1–1 Manchester United.

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