ARNE SLOT left a reporter embarrassed with an obvious fact about Ryan Gravenberch.
The incident occurred after Liverpool secured an impressive 2-0 win over holders Real Madrid in the Champions League group stage.
A thriller at Anfield saw both sides miss penalties.
But it was the Reds who emerged victorious thanks to goals from Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo.
There were impressive performances all over the pitch from Liverpool.
Yet it was in midfield where the game was won.
Deployed in a deep solo role, Gravenberch helped his side control the tempo while dominating Real Madrid trio Luka Modric, Eduardo Camavinga and Jude Bellingham.
The Dutchman’s top show was his latest this season, having become a key player under new boss Slot.
But one reporter was left red-faced when asking Liverpool’s manager a question about Gravenberch.
Slot was asked at his post-match press conference whether the Reds’ classy playmaker could be the next Toni Kroos.
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The ex-Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Germany star retired after the Euros with seven league titles, six Champions Leagues and a World Cup.
Unfortunately for the reporter though, Slot responded with an obvious fact.
The gaffer said: “No, because he (Gravenberch) is Dutch, not German.”
Gravenberch is in his second season at Liverpool following a £33million move from Bayern Munich in 2023.
He struggled to impress under Jurgen Klopp last term despite clocking up 38 appearances in all competitions.
But Gravenberch looks a different player in Slot’s possession-focused side, already featuring in 17 matches.
And his dad Ryan Snr reckons Liverpool’s new manager is the exact reason why Gravenberch is playing so well.
He said: “We are God-believing people, and we think God sent Arne to us and to Liverpool.
“Obviously he’s Dutch so when he explains something to Ryan, he can understand it very clearly. He communicates superbly.
“The main thing he’s said to Ryan is: ‘I’m going to play you and so it is on you to maintain playing.’ He was very clear about that and that has worked for both sides.”
