Liverpool Star is ‘Really Proud’ after Winning Major Award | OneFootball

Ryan Gravenberch Reflects on PFA Recognition as Liverpool Midfielder Eyes Further Glory

Ryan Gravenberch’s inclusion in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year marks a significant milestone in what has already become an impressive Liverpool career. Still just 23, the Dutch midfielder has emerged as one of the key figures in Arne Slot’s title-winning side. His performances across the 2024-25 campaign not only helped deliver the Premier League trophy back to Anfield, they earned him the respect of his peers on a night of celebration in Manchester.

Gravenberch, who was also named the division’s Young Player of the Season, was one of five Liverpool players recognised at the annual PFA ceremony. His form throughout the season displayed maturity, technical quality and physical presence, attributes that have made him central to Slot’s midfield structure.

“Really proud – really proud,” he said when asked about the award. “You worked really hard last season and the recognition from the other players to be in the Team of the Season, I’m really glad and really proud of myself.”

Photo: IMAGO

Memorable Night in Manchester

For Gravenberch, this was more than just another accolade. It was also his first experience of a PFA Awards ceremony, something he was quick to highlight.

“It was really nice, this was actually my first time. It was new for me, the red carpet and everything, saw the other players as well. It was a really nice event.”

Such moments matter, particularly for a player whose initial transition to English football came under scrutiny. Arriving from Bayern Munich in 2023, Gravenberch required time to adjust. But under Slot, he has flourished, blending defensive discipline with attacking flair, becoming both a creator and a controller.

Ready to Go Again

Although he missed Liverpool’s opening match of the 2025-26 season through suspension, a 4-2 win over Bournemouth, Gravenberch is back in contention for the trip to Newcastle. His hunger remains evident, and his message is clear: last season’s triumph was a beginning, not a conclusion.

“Of course,” he said when asked if he is eager to challenge again. “Obviously when we were champions at Anfield, you saw the moments with the fans and everything. As a player you want to achieve it again and give the fans more trophies and more prizes. We will try everything and work hard for it.”

His mentality mirrors that of a squad unwilling to rest on its laurels, and with Gravenberch returning to action, Liverpool’s midfield has regained a crucial cog.

New Season, New Purpose

August has been eventful for Gravenberch off the pitch as well, with the midfielder welcoming the birth of his child just ahead of the FA Community Shield.

“Yeah, everything is good, everything is great,” he said. “They are both healthy, so I’m happy, really happy.”

With his personal life settling into a new rhythm and his professional aspirations aligned with a Liverpool side that has tasted success under new leadership, Gravenberch’s journey is one that continues to gather momentum. The PFA Awards may have recognised last season’s excellence, but the midfielder’s focus is firmly on what lies ahead.