Liverpool’s Ryan Gravenberch Named 2024-25 Young Player of the Season | OneFootball

Ryan Gravenberch: Crowned, Composed and Coming of Age

Rising Star in Red

Ryan Gravenberch’s 2024-25 season was not just a breakthrough—it was a transformation. The 22-year-old Dutch midfielder has been awarded the Premier League Young Player of the Season, a fitting tribute to a campaign defined by control, maturity, and presence. As Liverpool FC confirmed, “The Dutchman was today confirmed as the winner of the prize, acknowledgement of his outstanding campaign in a new role within the Reds’ league-winning side.”

Brought in from Bayern Munich in the summer of 2023, there were expectations of promise but few could have forecast the scale of his influence under Arne Slot. Moved into a deeper midfield role, Gravenberch evolved from an attacking prospect into a metronomic orchestrator.

Key to Liverpool’s Title Charge

Liverpool didn’t just win the Premier League this season; they dominated it. And at the heart of that dominance was a young man who featured in all 34 matches that secured the title before May. His consistency was startling. The data underscores his impact: 48 total appearances, 4,138 minutes played, and a staggering 2,430 passes completed—numbers that reveal not just presence, but influence.

Photo: IMAGO

Arne Slot’s tactical switch was inspired. Gravenberch’s blend of physicality, intelligence and technical assurance allowed him to link defence and attack with calm authority. His positioning showed a player who reads the game at an elite level, while his tempo dictated Liverpool’s rhythm. This wasn’t a player merely making up the numbers; it was a player running the show.

Dominating a Competitive Field

Gravenberch beat an impressive shortlist to take the prize: Liam Delap, Anthony Elanga, Dean Huijsen, Cole Palmer, Joao Pedro, Morgan Rogers and William Saliba. While many had moments of brilliance, none matched Gravenberch’s consistency, versatility and responsibility in a title-winning team.

Liverpool’s faith in youth continues to yield dividends, but few could have anticipated the speed at which Gravenberch would become indispensable. From a rotational player in Bavaria to an ever-present engine at Anfield, his rise is a testament to both his adaptability and Slot’s coaching clarity.

Gravenberch Reflects the Club’s Future

This award is not just a capstone to an outstanding campaign; it is a signpost to the future. Gravenberch has emerged as a pillar in the new era post-Klopp, an embodiment of Slot’s proactive approach. With a long summer ahead and European competition returning, his importance to the squad will only grow.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Ryan Gravenberch might have arrived with promise, but it’s the delivery that’s been most impressive. Fans were cautiously optimistic after his Bayern switch—he had potential but was somewhat peripheral in Germany. What we’ve seen this season is a complete shift. It’s not just about where he plays on the pitch—it’s about how he leads through control.

His ability to maintain tempo, resist pressure, and offer a consistent passing option has been quietly crucial. He’s not a showboater, not a headline-grabber. But ask any match-going Red at Anfield this season and they’ll tell you—Gravenberch never hides. Every touch is purposeful, every pass sets the tone.

This award matters because it recognises substance over flash. It acknowledges a player doing the gritty, technical work that lets others thrive. And it’s a nod to Arne Slot’s vision—bold, smart, and future-facing.

In a season that delivered silverware, it’s fitting that one of its most understated architects is now being rightly celebrated. And as a fan base, we couldn’t be prouder.