Who is Julian Ryerson?

Data correct as of 3 October 2024

Julian Ryerson

Age: 26
Club: Borussia Dortmund
Position: Full-back (right or left)
Country: Norway (26 caps)

Born in Lyngdal, Norway, Ryerson is a product of the Viking Stavanger academy. He made his senior debut in 2015, and went on to have a hand in 10 goals in 68 first-team appearances in domestic competition, before moving to Union on a three-year deal in summer 2018.

The 6'0" defender turned out eight times as Union secured an historic promotion to the Bundesliga at the end of his first season in the German capital. Now approaching 80 Bundesliga appearances almost halfway into 2022/23, he is among the Bundesliga's top 12 for crosses from open play for the campaign. The Norway international joined Dortmund on a three-and-half-year deal in January 2023, having produced three goals and three assists in 109 competitive outings in Union colours.

During the second half of the 2022/23 campaign, Ryerson made 17 Bundesliga appearances and scored one goal as Dortmund went within 90 minutes of winning the Bundesliga title. Injuries hampered his 23/24 term, but he still managed four goals in 21 league outings, while he featured in 10 out of Dortmund's 13 UEFA Champions League fixtures during their run to the final - they ultimately lost to Real Madrid. 

Such has been his consistent form, he put pen to paper on a new contract in October 2024 that will see him stay at the club until 2028. Internationally, Ryerson made his senior Norway debut in a 1-1 UEFA Nations League draw in 2020, and has since made a further 25 appearances.

Plays a bit like: Achraf Hakimi

Ryerson is a right-back by trade, but is - like former Dortmund man Achraf Hakimi - equally adept on the opposite flank. Indeed, he has made almost as many appearances on the left as he has on the right for Die Schwarzgelben.

Did you know?

If you’re wondering why the Ryerson name sounds more Uncle Sam than Ragnar Lodbrok, it's because it is. Julian’s father was born in the USA, meaning the Union talent - whose cousins are also involved in the professional game - was once eligible to play for the Stars and Stripes at international level.

What they're saying

"Julian Ryerson is an intelligent and aggressive defender, in a good way. He can play in a back four or a back three - his versatility is a real asset." - Dortmund sporting director Sebastian Kehl

"It's really impressive how he's been playing, and he can play a variety of positions." - Union head coach Urs Fischer earlier in 2022/23

"I'm still proud and humbled to be part of this club. And now I'm very happy that I can continue to play for Borussia Dortmund. I feel at home here and enjoy every match day - especially when we play at home. That's why I'm at BVB, and I want to have this feeling for as long as possible." Ryerson upon his contract extension