Dean Huijsen, Real Madrid’s latest signing, expressed his aspiration to emulate Sergio Ramos and revealed that he has already had discussions with manager Xabi Alonso regarding his future role in the team, praising Ramos as his “idol.”
Last month, Madrid announced the signing of the 20-year-old center-back on a five-year deal. Huijsen is currently focused on his international duties with Spain as they prepare for the UEFA Nations League semi-finals against France this Thursday.
In an interview with Diario after training with Spain on Monday, Huijsen referenced the legendary Ramos, who enjoyed a noteworthy career at Madrid and has secured numerous titles at both club and national levels.
“My goal is to become like Sergio Ramos. He is my role model,” Huijsen stated. “He was a complete player, showcasing leadership, scoring ability, and an impressive personality.”
Originally from Amsterdam and growing up in Malaga, Huijsen has experienced a rapid rise in his career over the past year; he made his Premier League debut with Bournemouth, donned the Spanish jersey for the first time in March, and subsequently signed with Madrid.
Having started at Malaga’s youth team before moving to Juventus and then being loaned to Rome, Huijsen eventually joined Bournemouth in July 2024.
“My intention was to stay at Bournemouth for two years, develop, and decide my next steps. But things progressed more quickly than I envisioned,” he remarked.
Real Madrid is currently undergoing a significant defensive overhaul following a disappointing season. Along with Huijsen, right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold has joined, and discussions are underway for left-back Alvaro Carrera.
Huijsen revealed he has already spoken with new coach Xabi Alonso, who replaced Carlo Ancelotti after the club’s trophy-less campaign. The team is set to compete in the Club World Cup this month.
“We discussed the team and his vision for the future,” Huijsen noted. “We all want to start winning again. It hasn’t sunk in yet, but I’m determined to do my best here in Madrid.”
Joining a dressing room filled with stars, Huijsen aims to prove himself after Madrid struggled this past season.
Ancelotti departed to manage Brazil after a season that saw the club finish second in La Liga, lose in the Copa del Rey final, and experience a string of defeats to Barcelona in the Champions League quarter-finals.
“I want to perform at my highest level,” Huijsen declared, referencing teammates like Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Jude Bellingham.
Madrid will kick off their Club World Cup campaign against Al-Hilal in Miami, Florida on June 18, facing Pachuca on June 22 and Salzburg on June 26.
Fan Take: This news is significant for soccer fans as it marks the arrival of a promising talent at one of the world’s biggest clubs, highlighting Real Madrid’s determination to rebuild and reclaim their dominance. Huijsen’s potential to emulate legends like Ramos not only fuels excitement among supporters but also symbolizes the ongoing evolution of the sport.
