Julian Ryerson

Julian Ryerson is a Norwegian defender whose game combines forceful tackling with useful delivery from wide positions. He can play on either side of a back four or as a wing-back outside three central defenders. That versatility lets a coach change the defensive shape without asking him to abandon the flanks.

His attacking contribution is clearest when he sends the ball into the penalty area for teammates to meet. Against Mainz in February 2026, his free-kick found Serhou Guirassy, his cross picked out Maximilian Beier and a corner supplied another Guirassy header. The sequence illustrates the range of his delivery: he can create from a moving attack or a stationary ball.

Ryerson's route began with Lyngdal's youth teams before he moved to Viking. He made his senior breakthrough there, playing in Norway's top division as a teenager and becoming a regular before the club's relegation in 2017. The next step took him abroad: he joined Union Berlin in 2018.

His first season in Germany required patience. Although used sparingly, he appeared in the decisive second leg of Union's promotion play-off against Stuttgart in 2019. His role grew after the club reached the Bundesliga, and he became a vice-captain. That progression took him from a supporting part in a promotion campaign to a position of responsibility.

Dortmund signed him from Union in January 2023, with sporting director Sebastian Kehl highlighting his aggressive defending and ability to cover both sides. In June 2024, Ryerson started the Champions League final at Wembley, where Dortmund lost 2–0 to Real Madrid.

For Norway, he made his senior debut against Austria in November 2020. He later played at the 2026 World Cup, including the quarter-final against England. Ryerson was replaced after an hour of that match, and Norway lost 2–1 after extra time.

Latest stats & form

Julian Ryerson currently plays for Borussia Dortmund as a right wing-back. He has represented Norway internationally.

Statistics cover recorded official matches.