Real Madrid culminated their domestic and European season, winning just the UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2024.
Up front, barring Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius and Rodrygo blew hot and cold and were not consistent. The midfield had its moments; however, what cost Carlo Ancelotti’s side the most was how the defense panned out.
Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao, being ruled out for the rest of the season due to ACL injuries, left a major hole at the back, and Los Blancos lacked an able backup.
Raul Asencio managed to cover and now seems to be a player for the future of the Merengues. Antonio Rüdiger turned out to be an adept partner, but towards the end of the season, it was learned that even the German was playing through pain for the whole season.
With David Alaba also not in his best shape and recovery, followed by Xabi Alonso’s arrival, this meant Real Madrid had to look at the market for a center-back.
Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen caught the eye of the Madrid executives, and even though the Spaniard was thought to move to another Premier League club, Los Blancos swooped in and triggered Huijsen’s release clause.
His height, agility, and ability to play with both feet meant he was the perfect fit for Xabi, who was also an admirer of the player.
Fast forward to just a week after he was presented as a Madrid player, Huijsen showed his caliber, even in a disappointing draw against Al-Hilal.
But with last night’s match against CF Pachuca, the 20-year-old proved why an initially reluctant Florentino Perez gave in and splashed €59.4 million on the youngster.
According to Sofascore statistics, Huijsen made 7 clearances, an interception, and a couple of tackles. Moreover, he was accurate with 93% of his passes (75/81). Completing 2/3 dribbles and winning 6/11 duels proved why he is the complete package.
His line-breaking pass to Vinicius, which led to the 3rd goal, must have made the fans think: “Was Huijsen the Toni Kroos replacement all along?”
The fact that he had the most touches by a player in the match (97) shows why Xabi wanted him and that he is prepared to reach new heights at the club.
Just two games in and, the new arrival has shown his class. Brace yourselves Madridistas — the ‘chill guy’ is just getting started.
