Real Madrid started a new era this summer, with Xabi Alonso now installed as the newest head coach of the club. And another addition to the first team was Dean Huijsen, who arrived earlier this month at the Premier League side AFC Bournemouth.
Huijsen, who made an impression on his Real Madrid debut in the 1-1 draw against Al Hilal, has already settled as a regular starter. And when speaking with the official media channels of the club (via Cadena SER), he spoke about his luck that he had made the move earlier this summer.
“For me it is a dream. I think it's a dream for every child to play for Real Madrid. It's the best club in the world and I am very proud and very happy to be here.”
Huijsen spoke about his early impressions about life in Real Madrid, and he also expressed his happiness in working under Alonso.
“There is a very good group here and the truth is that the dressing room is very united. We are very happy to have Xabi Alonso here too. I think he has many good ideas and we will have good years together.”
Huijsen seems to be an excellent signature for Real Madrid, and it would be no surprise to see him an undisputed starter during the 2025-26 season, even though it is only 20 years old. He will compete with Raul Asencio, Antonio Rudiger, Eder Militao and David Alaba for two positions, or three as Alonso chooses to reduce the system he used during his Bayer Leverkusen -office period.
There is a lot of excitement within Real Madrid for this Alonso era, but it will not be until the beginning of the 2025-26 season that he can give a good impression of how he wants his side to play. The World Cup Club will only be a small taste.