National team coach backs Real Madrid defender during tough period – ‘He need time to grow’ | OneFootball

The first half of Real Madrid’s season has been a sharp learning curve for Dean Huijsen. 

Arriving with a heavy price tag and enormous expectations, the young centre-back was immediately placed under a spotlight few players his age ever experience. 

What began with excitement and optimism has gradually shifted into a more uncomfortable phase, where every mistake is magnified and every performance dissected.

Huijsen’s adaptation to life at the Bernabeu has been far from linear. There have been encouraging moments, but also games that have exposed his inexperience at the very highest level. 

His struggles in key fixtures, particularly the difficult outing against Sevilla, left doubts hanging over his readiness to lead a defence at a club where perfection is the minimum requirement. 

Those performances have clearly weighed on the defender, prompting a period of reflection during the Christmas break as he searches for clarity and confidence.

Support from national team coach

For what it is worth, Huijsen is not without support. Behind the noise, there remains a group of influential figures who continue to see him as a long-term asset rather than a short-term problem. 

Among them is Luis de la Fuente, who has consistently defended the young defender’s profile and potential.

De la Fuente has offered support to Dean Huijsen. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

De la Fuente highlighted qualities that do not always show up in match reports or social media debates. 

“If I had to highlight one of his qualities, I would probably say his maturity. For his age and position, he is very mature. 

“He is a chosen one, with the ability to adapt to a constantly stressful environment and the highest demands in every game. 

“In general, he doesn’t let the pressure get to him, and that’s a good thing. He has exceptional physical and soccer skills that he will need to refine and improve. 

“He needs time and humility to continue growing, but he is a centre-back who can be trusted with complete confidence,” he added.

Still, support alone will not be enough. The defender’s image has taken a hit, and restoring trust will require action rather than reassurance. 

Which is why Huijsen’s response to criticism, his attitude in training, and his ability to absorb pressure will be key in the second half of the season.