The Dutch presence at Liverpool is stronger than ever with Arne Slot taking charge as head coach last summer. Virgil van Dijk remains a cornerstone for both club and country, but Slot has also been instrumental in the development of Cody Gakpo and Ryan Gravenberch, helping them elevate their performances.
Gakpo has thrived since being returned to his preferred position on the left wing, while Gravenberch has adapted impressively to a deeper midfield role. Both players were key contributors to Liverpool’s Premier League title-winning campaign.
Erik Meijer, a former Dutch international who joined Liverpool from Bayer Leverkusen in 1999 and is now a Bundesliga pundit, has followed Jeremie Frimpong’s career closely. He believes Frimpong will thrive under Slot, just like his compatriots.
“He had a solid season at Leverkusen, but his previous campaign – when they won the double – was even better,” Meijer said in an interview with the ECHO. “It’s a big step up for him, but he’s adapted quickly before, and with the right coach giving him confidence and minutes, he can continue to grow. That’s what he’ll get at Liverpool.”
Meijer noted Frimpong’s familiarity with English football and culture, as well as the benefit of sharing a language with Slot, as key factors that will aid his transition. He expects the 24-year-old to be part of the starting lineup from day one.
Although Frimpong may not be as strong defensively as Trent Alexander-Arnold, Meijer believes his incredible pace and attacking instincts will make him a valuable asset—especially as competition for Conor Bradley.
“At Leverkusen, he was mainly a wing-back in a back three, but he’s also played as a full-back,” Meijer explained. “He’s versatile, which is a big plus. Alonso used him in both attacking and defensive roles, and that flexibility will be useful for Slot.”
Meijer also praised Liverpool for securing Frimpong for £29.5 million, calling it a smart investment in the current market.
As a lifelong Liverpool fan, Meijer is hopeful Frimpong will help the Reds add more silverware and build on last season’s domestic success. He admitted being surprised by Slot’s immediate impact but credited his clear communication and consistency throughout the campaign.
Liverpool’s triumph was helped by the dip in form of rivals like Manchester City and Arsenal, and Meijer highlighted the importance of keeping key players fit—especially Alisson.
He’s optimistic that Slot can take Liverpool even further in Europe after narrowly missing out this past season.
The Dutch core at Liverpool will be pivotal again next season, and Meijer welcomed the news of Van Dijk’s contract extension. He also praised Gravenberch’s resurgence after struggling at Bayern Munich, crediting Slot for giving the young midfielder the belief and playing time needed to succeed.
“When Gravenberch moved to Bayern, it didn’t work out, partly due to the system and competition for his role,” Meijer said. “But at Liverpool, he found a coach who trusts him. That’s made all the difference.”
Meijer also acknowledged that Bayern Munich’s reported interest in Gakpo is understandable, given the forward’s strong season. Should an offer come, Gakpo could face a tough decision.
“He’s scored crucial goals and proved his value,” Meijer noted. “He’s got that killer instinct that’s rare—no surprise Bayern are watching him.”
