Dean Huijsen Reveals Real Madrid Choice Brings Mixed Reactions in National Team

Dean Huijsen, Real Madrid’s new signing, says teammates in the national team praise his decision to join the Spanish giants, while Barcelona players tease him about his future in El Clásico.

WHAT WAS SAID?

Huijsen, who just completed his transfer from Bournemouth to Real Madrid for £50 million, shared that some of his fellow Spain internationals believe he made the right move by choosing Madrid. However, he also admitted that Barcelona players enjoy joking with him about their club rivalry, especially with the anticipation building for the coming El Clásico clash between La Liga’s top teams.

THE CONTEXT: A RISING STAR IN A SEASON OF CHANGE

The 20-year-old defender enjoyed a breakout season in the Premier League with Bournemouth, making 29 appearances and scoring three goals. He made his Spain debut in March, underlining his rapid progress. Real Madrid, who suffered from defensive injuries during the 2024-25 campaign, moved quickly to secure him ahead of big clubs like Chelsea and Arsenal. Madrid finished the last La Liga season battling injuries and chasing rivals Barcelona in the standings. As per recent reports, Barcelona ended the campaign just above Madrid, with both clubs locked in a tight race for the title until the final weeks during the last season.

WHAT’S NEXT: FOCUS ON TROPHIES AND THE NEW EL CLÁSICO

He is expected to become a key part of Madrid’s central defense, hoping to help the team close the gap with Barcelona in the this La Liga season, and Real are off to a positive start as they are already two points ahead of the Catalan team with three matches played. Barcelona will be watching closely, their players teasing Huijsen in anticipation of the first El Clásico of 2025-26. The match is set to be a major early test for both teams, who finished last season just a few points apart at the top of the table. Real Madrid have started the 2025-26 La Liga season well and are currently level on points with Athletic Club at the top of the table after their first two matches according to reports. Madrid’s first domestic match is also crucial as they aim to get ahead of their rivals from the very beginning.