Dean Huijsen arrived in Madrid as the most expensive center-back in the club's history, but he hit a slump. He was whistled at the Bernabeu and fell into a spiral of frustration, one he appears to have already overcome.
"I think I have had a period in which I have not given the level that people know I can give and that I am now giving." Dean Huijsen, 21, arrived in Real Madrid with the ambition of taking over the future.
It was no less, after the white club turned him into the most expensive center-back in its history after paying €62 million for his signing from Bournemouth. However, after a very promising start... Dean entered a spiral of frustration just when he needed composure the most.
Immersed in his most uncomfortable moment, the Spanish center-back had to face some whistles at the Bernabeu. Now, after leaving that slump behind with an evident exercise in maturation, the Spanish center-back faces the end of the league season in which he is finally dispelling any doubt.
In addition, Militao's absence for the remainder of the season opens the door to a starting role for him and places him in a privileged position to gain weight in the team and reinforce his candidacy for the World Cup.
REUTERSHe has not always had that role. Militao's return and Rüdiger's hierarchy relegated him during the tie against Bayern. He started in the first leg, although substituted in the 62nd minute, and in the second leg at the Allianz Arena, he was left out of the starting lineup in favor of Arbeloa's preferred pair.
Now, the scenario is different. Huijsen has regained his feel for the game, has shown himself to be firm with the ball again, and has also taken a step forward in defensive duels, the most questioned aspect of his game.
"I am going to have patience with this type of player," Arbeloa assured months ago, in a clear defense of his process, remembering the evolution of other young players who also needed time. And time ended up proving him right.
With five matchdays ahead, the center-back not only seeks to confirm his improvement, but also wants to turn this final stretch into the definitive boost to establish himself at Real Madrid and reach the World Cup with a leading role.
"He needs time and humility to keep growing. He has exceptional qualities that he must polish," Luis de la Fuente said. And Huijsen has left the noise behind and has begun to speak on the field.
Join The Conversation
Roundtablesports is Free to join! You can post your own thoughts, comment on articles, and start conversations with our Roundtable Writers.
Download the FREE Roundtable APP, and get even easier access to your favorite teams and news!