Frank Christian
Rafael van der Vaart, a former Premier League midfielder, has once again asserted that Liverpool’s Ryan Gravenberch might outshine Jude Bellingham of Real Madrid.
Known for his bold opinions since retiring from football, van der Vaart is a strong supporter of his fellow Dutchman Gravenberch.
Prior to their club moves last summer, van der Vaart forecasted a significant impact for Gravenberch at Liverpool after his transfer from Bayern Munich on deadline day.
What did Rafael van der Vaart say about Jude Bellingham?
He expressed that Bellingham’s time at Borussia Dortmund did not match Gravenberch’s performance with Bayern, even though Real Madrid pursued Bellingham vigorously.
“The main difference between them is that Bellingham plays at a club where he always starts, which is a step below. I believe Gravenberch excels in all aspects, especially in terms of physicality,” van der Vaart stated in an interview with Ziggo Sport.
During the 2023/24 season, their experiences diverged, with Gravenberch facing challenges under Jurgen Klopp, while Bellingham thrived in Madrid.
Bellingham’s impressive tally of 19 goals in La Liga helped secure the league title and a UEFA Champions League victory for Real Madrid during his outstanding first season in Spain.
Nevertheless, as Gravenberch begins the 2024/25 season positively under new manager Arne Slot, van der Vaart continues to back his stance.
“I received significant criticism for saying a year ago that Ryan Gravenberch could surpass Jude Bellingham, but I still believe it,” he remarked during a conversation with BetMGM.
“I’ve always thought he has immense potential if he can realize it. I’m not surprised by his excellent performance this season for Liverpool and the Netherlands.
“Arne Slot has effectively utilized him at Liverpool, and he’s excelling. He possesses all the attributes required to reach the summit. His strength, speed, and intelligence mean Liverpool supporters should be eager about his future.”
Gravenberch has played the full 90 minutes in each of Liverpool’s first three matches this season, with the team currently holding a perfect record.
Slot’s team is set to play at home against Nottingham Forest on September 14, followed by a Champions League opener at AC Milan three days later.
