Introduction
In a remarkable culmination to what has been a dream season for both player and club, Ryan Gravenberch has officially been named the 2024-25 Premier League Young Player of the Season. The Liverpool midfielder was confirmed as the recipient of the prestigious award today, beating off stiff competition from some of the league’s brightest young stars.
This recognition caps a phenomenal campaign for the 22-year-old Dutch international, who emerged as a pivotal figure in Liverpool’s title-winning side under new head coach Arne Slot.
A New Role, A New Star
Ryan Gravenberch, a 2023 signing from Bayern Munich, initially arrived at Anfield with much fanfare but little certainty about how he would be deployed. Known primarily for his attacking instincts and technical prowess, the young midfielder was viewed by many as a potential offensive force in the middle of the park.
However, the summer of 2024 brought a transformation not just in Liverpool’s tactical identity, but also in Gravenberch’s role on the pitch. Arne Slot, brought in to succeed Jurgen Klopp, had a different vision for the Dutchman one that would see him deployed in a deeper-lying midfield position.
The result? A season of consistently elite performances that not only solidified Ryan Gravenberch’s status as one of the league’s most promising young players but also helped Liverpool reclaim the Premier League title with four games to spare.
Consistency Is Key: 34 Starts, 0 Misses
What sets Ryan Gravenberch apart from his peers this season is his remarkable consistency. The Dutchman started all 34 matches in Liverpool’s campaign leading up to their title win in late April a feat made even more impressive considering the intensity and competitiveness of the Premier League.
His ability to read the game, intercept passes, control the tempo, and initiate attacks from deep became the engine room of Slot’s midfield. While he may not have been the most glamorous name on the scoresheet, his influence in Liverpool’s buildup play and defensive solidity cannot be overstated.
It’s no exaggeration to say that Gravenberch became the heartbeat of a Liverpool side that looked more composed, tactical, and ruthless than ever before.
A Talented Shortlist, But One Clear Winner
The race for the Premier League Young Player of the Season was far from a one-horse race. The shortlist included some of the finest young talents lighting up the English top flight:
- Liam Delap (Ipsiwch) – A rising striker who turned heads in the Premier league and made a strong impression after promotion.
- Anthony Elanga (Nottingham Forest) – The Swedish winger dazzled with pace and flair.
- Dean Huijsen (Bournemouth) – From Juventus added steel to Bournemouth backline.
- Cole Palmer (Chelsea) – A technically gifted playmaker with a knack for scoring.
- Joao Pedro (Brighton) – Energetic and dangerous in attack.
- Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa) – Broke through with some eye-catching performances.
- William Saliba (Arsenal) – The Frenchman continues to impress as a defensive rock.
Yet, Ryan Gravenberch’s dominance in both minutes played, impact, and tactical maturity saw him rise above his peers. He wasn’t just playing well he was leading from the middle, week in and week out.
Slot’s Masterstroke: Tactical Reinvention
Much of the credit for Ryan Gravenberch’s rise must go to Arne Slot, whose appointment in the summer of 2024 initially sparked mixed emotions among Liverpool fans still emotional over Klopp’s departure.
But Slot, known for his tactical sophistication in the Eredivisie, quickly made his mark. Perhaps his most inspired decision of the season was seeing in Gravenberch what many others had not a potential deep-lying playmaker capable of anchoring midfield with calmness, control, and intelligence.
Under Slot’s guidance, Ryan Gravenberch evolved from a raw prospect into a Premier League powerhouse, displaying defensive grit, long-range passing ability, and surprising maturity for someone so young.
Quotes and Reactions: Praise Floods In
While official reactions are still trickling in, early tributes have already begun pouring in across social media platforms from fans, pundits, and former players. Many have described Ryan Gravenberch’s transformation as “unbelievable,” while others have hailed Slot’s decision to play him deeper as a “masterstroke.”
A former Liverpool midfielder remarked:
“Gravenberch reminds me of a young Steven Gerrard in terms of influence. He might not grab all the headlines, but he runs the show. Week in, week out.”
Liverpool fans, already euphoric after reclaiming the Premier League crown, now have even more reason to celebrate with this latest accolade.
The Road Ahead: A Star in the Making
At just 22 years old, Ryan Gravenberch is still far from his peak. This award is not only a nod to his fantastic 2024-25 campaign but also a sign of things to come. With a manager who trusts him and a team built around possession and control, the Dutchman is primed to become one of Europe’s elite midfielders.
Liverpool, too, will be hoping this is only the beginning. With the foundations now set under Slot’s tenure, and players like Ryan Gravenberch thriving, the Reds could be looking at a new era of sustained success.
Conclusion
In a season full of high drama, tactical masterclasses, and individual brilliance, Ryan Gravenberch stood tall. From adapting to a new role, excelling with every game, and becoming a consistent fixture in a title-winning midfield, the Dutchman has more than earned this honor.
Ryan Gravenberch is not just the 2024-25 Premier League Young Player of the Season he’s the blueprint for the modern midfielder.
Congratulations to Ryan Gravenberch and Liverpool champions on and off the pitch.
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YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
LiverpoolFCTimes.com