Real Madrid News
Dean Huijsen talks Real Madrid move, favourite memory, Club World Cup – ‘Can’t wait to get started”
New Real Madrid signing Dean Huijsen has expressed his joy and excitement in his first interview with Real Madrid TV.
The young centre-back, full of emotion, admitted that joining the club is a dream he was not sure would ever come true.
“I’m very excited to be here and can’t wait to get started,” Huijsen said. “It’s one of those dreams you don’t know will come true, and thank God it did.”
The Dutch-born defender was left speechless when he saw the club’s historic 15 European Cups.
“Walking into the room and seeing the 15 Champions League trophies was incredible. That’s Real Madrid.
“No one comes close. There’s no generation of Madrid fans that hasn’t made history. This is the biggest club in the world.”
Decision to join Real Madrid
When asked why he chose Real Madrid, Huijsen was clear and direct, stating “Every step I’ve taken in my career has been to get here. It’s the best club in the world. I want to grow here and win a lot of titles.”
Describing himself as a player, the defender added: “I would say I’m a complete centre-back. But of course, I can still improve in all areas, and I’m going to give my best for the team.”
Huijsen also recalled his first memory of the club. “It was watching Sergio Ramos’ goal in the Champions League final against Atletico. That goal will stay with me forever.”
Looking ahead to the new season, Huijsen spoke about the Club World Cup: “Winning the Club World Cup would be something huge. It should be expected from Real Madrid.”
Finally, the 20-year-old sent a message to the fans, adding, “Hello Madridistas, I’m here! I’m really excited to get going and I hope to see you all soon at the Bernabéu. Hala Madrid!”
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid key midfielder ready to start vs Atletico Madrid after strong return from injury
Real Madrid have had a few injuries to contend with since the start of the season, with Aurelien Tchouameni, Thiago Pitarch and Endrick all serving spells on the sidelines.
The trio are back in training now and looking to work their way into Jose Mourinho’s plans after a disrupted pre-season.
Now, according to Alberto Pereiro, Tchouameni appears to be winning the race to return to Real Madrid’s starting XI for the derby against Atletico Madrid.
The 26-year-old is said to be in the best physical condition of the players who have recently returned from injury.
Thiago Pitarch, Endrick and Tchouameni all rejoined team training last week, but the Frenchman is currently considered the most match-ready of the three.
Tchouameni ahead in the recovery race
As such, Tchouameni is now expected to start against Atletico Madrid later this week. That would be an important boost for Mourinho considering the physical nature of the game in store.
Tchouameni gives Real Madrid something very specific in midfield. He can protect the defence, compete in duels, cover large spaces and provide the kind of structure Mourinho values when matches become chaotic.
His return would also allow Real Madrid to approach the game with more balance around Federico Valverde and the attacking players ahead of them.
Mourinho has always valued his profile
Mourinho has been careful with Tchouameni’s recovery rather than rushing him back before he was fully ready.
That patience now looks set to pay off. Madrid have enough technical quality in midfield, but against Atletico, the game is unlikely to be decided by possession alone.
The ability to win second balls, close transition spaces and survive physically intense periods could be just as important.
This is exactly where Tchouameni thrives.
Pitarch and Endrick may need more time
The latest update also suggests Pitarch and Endrick are slightly behind Tchouameni in terms of physical readiness.
That does not necessarily mean either player is unavailable, but it would make sense for Mourinho to manage their minutes more cautiously. The duo are expected to be fully ready after the international break.
Pitarch still has an important role to play in a crowded midfield, while Endrick will be looking to re-establish himself in the attacking rotation after his own injury interruption.
For the derby, neither of those players is likely to be an option for the XI, but Tchouameni will definitely be a great addition.
If he does start, it would underline how highly Mourinho values him in the biggest matches. At the Metropolitano, Madrid may need Tchouameni more than anyone else, and it remains to be seen how things play out.
