Marvin Young named Johan Cruyff Talent of the Month for March
The 19-year-old Marvin Young, defender of Sparta Rotterdam, is enjoying a breakout season and now has his first individual accolade: Johan Cruyff Talent of the Month. In March, he performed better than any other player under 21 in the Eredivisie.
From Youth Prospect to Key Player
Marvin Young came through the entire youth academy at Sparta Rotterdam and signed his first professional contract in June 2023. Since making his Eredivisie debut in August, he has become a regular starter. His contract was extended in January and now runs until mid-2029.
Defensive Standout
The 19-year-old from Middelburg played a key role in Sparta’s strong run in March, which included wins over Willem II (4-0) and Fortuna Sittard (0-3), and draws against NAC Breda (1-1) and PEC Zwolle (1-1). Young won more aerial duels than any other Eredivisie player (25), had the highest passing accuracy among U21 players (90.2%), and wasn’t dribbled past once in four matches.
The award was presented by ESPN host Bennett van Fessem. Watch the interview here
Donations to Foundations
As part of the award, Marvin Young receives a €2,500 cheque from the VriendenLoterij for SV Jong Ambon, the amateur club from Middelburg where he began his career. An additional €5,000 is donated to the Johan Cruyff Foundation to support social and sporting initiatives.
About the Awards
The Eredivisie Player of the Month, Johan Cruyff Talent of the Month, and Team of the Month awards are based on Opta stats and votes from football fans (KPN Man of the Match). These same criteria are used to determine the Eredivisie Player of the Year and Johan Cruyff Talent of the Year, which will be awarded on Monday, May 26, during the Eredivisie Awards.
The monthly awards are an initiative of the Eredivisie CV in collaboration with ESPN, the VriendenLoterij, and the Johan Cruyff Foundation.
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