Real Madrid News
Real Madrid defender could make a comeback in Club World Cup knockouts
While Dean Huijsen and Raul Asencio did indeed start the new tournament as Real Madrid’s starting centre-back combination for the FIFA Club World Cup, the latter’s suspension saw Antonio Rudiger overtake him and earn a start in the final game against RB Salzburg.
The German international’s return from injury earlier this month, after all, came as a massive relief for the coach as it broadened his options in the department and gave him some room to rotate players on need.
Now, as relayed by Sergio Quirante, Real Madrid are very close to welcoming back another central defender into the mix and could thus be past their centre-back crisis very soon.
Militao’s return
The Spanish journalist reports that Eder Militao’s recovery has been progressing well and that he is now on the verge of a return to the dynamics in what comes as a much-needed boost to the club.
If everything goes to plan, he is even expected to be included in Real Madrid’s squad for the Round of 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup along with Endrick who is also poised for a comeback.
The last two seasons have been treacherous for Militao as he suffered two consecutive ACL injuries, the second weeks after recovering from the first, thus effectively ruling him out for close to two years.
Needless to say, his return comes as a massive boost for Xabi Alonso but the manager must be equally cautious while phasing out the Brazilian’s return to avoid another relapse which could effectively destroy Militao’s career.
The defender’s first ACL injury saw him miss 45 games for the club while the second has seen him miss 49 games so far.
As such, the player will need time to get back to steam but there is no denying that he is one of the finest defenders on the planet once he is back in touch.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid star Huijsen credits Mourinho for improved form in new season: ‘He supports me a lot’
Real Madrid will be looking to get back to winning ways in LaLiga as they take on Rayo Vallecano on Saturday.
The club are coming on the back of a 1-0 defeat to Real Betis last weekend but did secure a narrow win over Inter Milan in the midweek Champions League fixture.
Heading into this game, Dean Huijsen, who has been showing a lot of promise in these early parts of the season, spoke to the club’s official media about the match ahead and how Real Madrid have been coping with the pressure early on, among other things.
Huijsen on Rayo and his defensive duties
The young centre-back was fully aware of the threat posed by Rayo and praised the opposition.
“We know that Rayo is a good team, and it’s a tough team to face, and we must give our all as we do in all matches to secure the three points, that’s the only thing that matters, and for the Bernabeu to be with us and for us all to be united,” he said.
He also detailed the defensive demands placed on him by the coaching staff led by Jose Mourinho.
“Well, what every coach asks of you: ferocity, intercepting balls, and winning one-on-one duels. He supports me a lot, and I think this helps me greatly, and defending together as a team,” he said.
On the team’s preparations for the fixture, Huijsen offered an insight into their training routine.
“We’re working on some tactics related to the opponent. And well, after that it depends on the day; we might play a mini-match among ourselves or not,” he added.
Huijsen on Mourinho and his fine form
The Spaniard was quick to credit Mourinho, with whom he previously worked at Roma, for his development and current level.
“We’ve known each other for a while, even though we spent a relatively short time together in Rome. He gave me the opportunity to make the real leap into professional football, and I’ll always be grateful to him for that,” Huijsen said.
Reflecting on his own performances, the defender was in confident mood, once again pointing to the influence of his coach and teammates.
“I think I’m in good shape. Well, I think I’m delivering a good level, and I believe that’s thanks to the coach too, as he keeps track of me and takes great care of me.”
“Well, I’m also doing my very best, and I think the teammates are supporting me too, and this is the perfect equation,” he added.
Finally, Huijsen explained how he manages his recovery amid a congested schedule.
“There are a lot of matches, so we need to recover well and stay focused on football, then you have to sleep well. And yes, on the days after the match, I also take a cold shower and a hot shower to recover better,” he concluded.
