Dean Donny Huijsen, born on April 14, 2005, in Amsterdam, Netherlands, is a young and promising center-back who has quickly risen through the ranks of European football. Standing tall at 1.97 meters, Huijsen combines physical presence with technical ability, making him a formidable defender. He holds dual citizenship in the Netherlands and Spain, having obtained Spanish nationality in 2024, which allowed him to debut for the Spanish national team in March 2025.
Huijsen’s football journey began in the youth academies of the Netherlands before moving to Italy, where he played for Juventus and Roma. His time in Serie A helped him develop tactical discipline and defensive awareness, key traits for a modern center-back. In 2024, he transferred to AFC Bournemouth in the English Premier League, where he made a significant impact during the 2024-2025 season.
Transfer to Real Madrid
In a major move that has caught the attention of football fans worldwide, Real Madrid officially signed Dean Huijsen on a five-year contract starting June 1, 2025, running through June 30, 2030. The Spanish giants activated his release clause, reportedly worth €58 million (approximately $66.4 million), underscoring their belief in his potential to become a cornerstone of their defense.
Huijsen’s transfer to Real Madrid is seen as a strategic investment in the club’s future defensive line. The 20-year-old defender is expected to make his debut for the club at the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, with potential appearances against teams like Al Hilal, Pachuca, or RB Salzburg.
Performance and Playing Style
During the 2024-2025 Premier League season with Bournemouth, Huijsen showcased his defensive prowess and growing maturity on the pitch. Here are some key statistics from his season:
| Statistic | Value |
| Matches Played | 22 (including 5 as substitute) |
| Goals Scored | 2 |
| Assists | 0 |
| Minutes Played | Approximately 1,694 |
| Aerial Duels Won | 59.3% |
| Pass Completion Rate | 84.3% |
| Yellow Cards | 6 |
| Fouls Committed | 90 |
Huijsen is known for his aggressive yet intelligent defending. His aerial ability is a major asset, winning nearly 60% of his aerial duels, which is crucial for defending set-pieces and long balls. Additionally, his comfort with both feet and high pass accuracy (84.3%) allow him to contribute effectively to building play from the back, a key requirement in modern football.
Defensively, Huijsen is strong in tackles, interceptions, and blocks, with a ground duels win rate of around 68%. His physicality combined with tactical awareness makes him a reliable presence in the heart of defense.
Potential Impact at Real Madrid
Real Madrid’s acquisition of Dean Huijsen signals a clear intent to rejuvenate their defensive line with young, talented players who can develop into world-class stars. Huijsen’s blend of height, technical skill, and tactical intelligence fits perfectly with Real Madrid’s style of play, which demands defenders who can defend robustly and initiate attacks.
The club’s management and coaching staff have expressed optimism about Huijsen’s potential, viewing him as a long-term solution to their defensive needs. His arrival also adds healthy competition among the defenders, pushing the squad to higher standards.
Future Prospects and Expectations
At just 20 years old, Dean Huijsen’s career trajectory is on a steep upward curve. His experience in top European leagues like Serie A and the Premier League, combined with his international exposure with Spain, equips him well for the challenges at Real Madrid.
Fans and analysts expect Huijsen to gradually cement his place in the starting lineup, especially as he gains experience and adapts to the demands of playing for one of the world’s biggest clubs. His physical attributes and playing style suggest he could become a dominant force in La Liga and European competitions.
Summary
Dean Huijsen is a highly promising young defender whose recent performances have earned him a high-profile transfer to Real Madrid. His physical presence, defensive skills, and ability to play out from the back make him an ideal fit for the club’s ambitions. As he embarks on this new chapter, Huijsen is poised to become a key figure in Real Madrid’s defense for years to come.
