Former Premier League midfielder Rafael van der Vaart has repeated his claim that Liverpool star Ryan Gravenberch can be better than Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham.
Van der Vaart has developed a reputation for bold statements in his post-playing career and he is big fan of his Dutch compatriot Gravenberch.
Ahead of both players swapping clubs last summer, van de Vaart tipped Gravenberch for a major impact at Anfield, after joining on deadline day from Bayern Munich.
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What did Rafael van der Vaart say about Jude Bellingham?
Van der Vaart claimed Bellingham's exploits at Borussia Dortmund were not at the same level as Gravenberch's with Bayern Munich despite Real Madrid going all out to sign him.
"I think the big difference (between the two players) is that Bellingham is a step lower at a club where he always plays. I think Gravenberch is better than him, in every way. Especially physically", he told an interview with Ziggo Sport.
The 2023/24 season was markedly different for both players, as Gravenberch struggled for form under Jurgen Klopp, and Bellingham hit the ground running in Madrid.
Bellingham's 19 La Liga goals propelled Real Madrid to the league title, alongside a UEFA Champions League crown, in an incredible debut campaign in the Spanish capital.
However, with Gravenberch starting the 2024/25 season strongly under new Reds boss Arne Slot, van der Vaart has defended his point.
"I took a lot of stick when I said Ryan Gravenberch has the potential to be better than Jude Bellingham a year ago, but I stand by it", he told BetMGM.
"I’ve always said the sky's the limit for him if he can fulfil his potential. I’m not surprised by how good he’s been this season for Liverpool and the Netherlands.
"Arne Slot has found a spot for him at Liverpool and he’s thriving. He's a player who has everything required to go to the top. He’s strong, quick and intelligent – Liverpool fans should be very excited about what’s to come."
Gravenberch has completed 90 minutes in each of Liverpool's opening three games of the season with the Reds maintaining a 100% record so far.
Slot's charges are back in action at home to Nottingham Forest on September 14 before starting their Champions League campaign at AC Milan three days later.
