Julian Nagelsmann uses Ryan Gravenberch example in message to Germany players

The Liverpool midfielder has thrived since moving to the Premier League, but struggled during his time at Bayern Munich, where he was largely a substitute under Julian Nagelsmann

Julian Nagelsmann has spoken about Ryan Gravenberch's time at Bayern Munich(Image: Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)

Julian Nagelsmann has used Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch as an example of his approach to managing the Germany squad.

The 38-year-old took charge of the national team in 2023 and is currently preparing for the World Cup. Assessing his squad and which players will fit into the roster is his primary responsibility in the months ahead of the tournament, while also attempting to judge the internal dynamics of the group.

Prior to his current role, Nagelsmann was Bayern Munich's coach, where he managed Gravenberch. The current Liverpool star struggled to make the step up in Bavaria and moved to Anfield after just a single season in the Bundesliga.

Reflecting on his time at Bayern, Nagelsmann said Gravenberch was the unfortunate victim of his circumstances at the time.

Speaking to Kicker, about selecting his Germany squad, Nagelsmann said: “You have to pay extremely close attention to how a player handles being 15th or 16th in our squad, even though he's considered a top-six player at his club, someone who always plays.

“Can a player who's a regular starter at his club grow into that kind of role with us, or not? I can certainly imagine that there will be players who don't see themselves as being 15th or 16th in the squad. They might not say so publicly, but they'll say it in private conversations.

“Ultimately, every player has to make a genuine commitment. But then, in March, they also have to show that they stand by their word and put the team first. I know from experience that not everyone can do that.

“Let me give you an example from my time at Bayern Munich. Ryan Gravenberch is a top-class player. He already was at Bayern, but the situation was very complicated for him after his transfer from Ajax.

Gravenberch only spent a year at Bayern(Image: Harry Langer/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)

“Leon Goretzka and Joshua Kimmich were ahead of him in the pecking order, and I had also promoted Aleksandar Pavlovic.

“Ryan's task was to step up his game in the last 20 minutes, but that's not his style of play. Ryan is a player who needs consistent rhythm throughout the match.

“And then there are players you can bring on for 20 minutes, either to maintain a result or to desperately score a goal. They can give their all and leave everything on the pitch in those 20 minutes.”

Gravenberch started just three Bundesliga games at Bayern but has become one of Arne Slot’s most influential players. Last season, he was selected as Premier League Young Player of the Season and was named in the PFA Team of the Year.