‘There’s an element of respect’ – National team coach addresses Real Madrid ace’s reaction to World Cup omission | OneFootball

Dean Huijsen’s omission from Spain’s World Cup squad has become one of the most discussed stories following the announcement of Luis de la Fuente’s final 26-man list.

The young Real Madrid defender had been widely expected to remain part of Spain’s plans after establishing himself as one of the country’s most promising centre-backs. 

Instead, De la Fuente opted for other defensive options, leaving Huijsen out of a squad that surprisingly contains no Real Madrid players at all.

Shortly after the announcement, the defender appeared to react on social media by sharing a post originally published by his father. 

The image highlighted statistical rankings, showing Huijsen among the standout performers in La Liga throughout the season.

Huijsen expressed his frustration on social media. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

The post quickly generated attention and fuelled speculation that the Real Madrid defender was unhappy with the decision.

De la Fuente responds to Huijsen’s reaction

In an interview with SPORT, De la Fuente was asked directly about Huijsen’s apparent frustration and whether the reaction had bothered him.

Responding to the question, the Spain manager said, “The thing is, I’ve no idea. I’m not on social media. 

“I understand that the player and his teammates who weren’t selected might be upset, but I also understand that there’s an element of respect that must always remain. 

“Although, as I said, I don’t know what he said.”

More to the story

Dean Huijsen was not selected for the World Cup. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

The issue was raised again when De la Fuente was informed that Huijsen had shared a post highlighting his place in La Liga’s Team of the Season.

Offering further thoughts on the situation, the Spain coach added,

“In any case, I understand the frustration; we must value those who respect their teammates. It’s not a big deal. He’s very young. He’s still learning. 

“Over time, he’ll realise what’s truly important, and one of those things is respect and camaraderie,” concluded the national team coach.