The midfielder who played the most minutes last season was recognized alongside his teammates at the PFA Awards earlier this week, and we’re talking about Ryan Gravenberch. The Dutchman was named along with Virgil Van Dijk, Alexis Mac Allister, Mohamed Salah, and Milos Kerkez (for his time with Bournemouth), in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year.
This is not the first time Gravenberch has been recognized by his peers for his contributions. He was named Young Player of the Season for the 2024-25
season, after leading the league in interceptions and ranking fifth for possession won throughout last season.
Gravenberch spoke with the club website about being included in the best XI of last season, and where his sights are set for the future.
“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,” Gravenberch said.
“It was really nice [to be at the ceremony], 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.”
The event was held in Manchester on Tuesday night, in which Mohamed Salah also won a historic third PFA Player of the Year award, but that wasn’t the important part. The important part is that Gravenberch will be available for selection for the match against Newcastle United on Monday, after missing the season opener against Bournemouth by serving his suspension from the last match of last season. When asked about wanting to succeed again next season, the answer was simple.
“Of course,” the midfielder said.
“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.”
Now, as Champions of the Premier League once again, there are more matches on the table and more silverware on offer. A new season means a clean slate and a new shelf on the trophy cabinet to hopefully be filled with the four we can chase. If Gravy is ready, then so are we.
