I think the tweet is slightly misleading. Van Nistelrooij said that Branthwaite along with several other players allowed him to play a higher defensive line. And he does mention that Branthwaite is a strong defender and can defend in 1v1s quite well and he also mentions Branthwaite being good enough on the ball.
I watched the game and Branthwaite did his job but Ajax dominated the ball in possession and if I'm not mistaken they had over 60% off the possession. And the PSV CB who was most active in possession was a player called Ramalho. And it was very obvious to see that the Ajax CBs were technically superior in possession. Jurrien Timber especially was the stand out CB on the pitch as far as ability on the ball is concerned. I think that's the level we should look for on the ball
I don't have a issue with Branthwaite as far as what he can do out of possession. He's got the pace and power to win duels but the question mark over him is his ability on the ball for a team that wants to dominate the ball against the opponent's press. I think for the money Everton will want, there's better options around Europe who tick both boxes as far being strong in the duel and also having higher potential ability on the ball.
If you want to dominate the game on the ball, then go out and sign players who are showing a high technical ability on the ball without compromising on pace and athleticism. Those players are out there imo and I believe we should look for solutions who tick all the boxes as far as his we want to dominate the ball with and without the ball.