The Dutch midfielder, who has been reshaped into a deeper role by Slot, has already shown his value to the Reds. He missed the opening game against Bournemouth through suspension after being sent off against Crystal Palace on the final day of last season, when he brought down Daichi Kamada to deny a clear scoring chance.
Without him, Liverpool conceded twice on the counter at Anfield but still edged past Bournemouth. On his return, Gravenberch scored the opener in the 3-2 win away at Newcastle and played an important role as Liverpool narrowly defeated Arsenal 1-0 at Anfield.
However, his disciplinary record remains a concern. At St James' Park, he was booked just eight minutes in for a rash challenge on Bruno Guimaraes, while against Arsenal he cynically pulled back Riccardo Calafiori to stop a dangerous break. That leaves him on two yellow cards from only two appearances this campaign.
FA rules state that any player who receives five bookings before the 19th league match will serve a one-match ban. That could cause Liverpool problems, with crucial fixtures against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge and Manchester United at Anfield looming in October.
Liverpool face Burnley at Turf Moor on Sunday, followed by a Merseyside derby against Everton at Anfield on 20 September, a match that is traditionally full of drama and challenges for referees. The Reds then travel to Selhurst Park to meet Crystal Palace on 27 September, where they have not won by more than a single goal since 2022.
Speaking recently, Slot praised Gravenberch's development in his new role but stressed the importance of control. "Ryan has been excellent since moving into midfield, but he must learn to manage situations better. Discipline is part of growing into that position," the Liverpool coach said.
Gravenberch, still only 23, has already become central to Liverpool's midfield balance, but avoiding unnecessary suspensions will be key if the Reds are to sustain their early title push.
Arsenal have been handed a timely lift ahead of their Premier League clash with Nottingham Forest on Saturday, with several players returning to training at London Colney.
Chelsea have been charged with 74 alleged breaches of Football Association regulations relating to the Roman Abramovich era, covering more than a decade of player dealings and financial activity.
Gary Neville has urged Florian Wirtz to rethink his movements on the pitch as the 22-year-old adjusts to life at Liverpool following a record-breaking transfer.
Ange Postecoglou has vowed to restore Nottingham Forest to the top level of English football after being confirmed as the club's new manager.
