Real Madrid youngster Dean Huijsen is drawing high praise from senior teammate Federico Valverde, who has commended the 19-year-old for his composure on the ball and natural ability to play out from the back.
The Dutch center-back, currently part of Real Madrid’s preseason training, is beginning to make a strong impression at the elite level, with his performances not going unnoticed by the club’s established stars.
Valverde, known for his tenacity and tactical intelligence in midfield, highlighted Huijsen’s maturity and calmness under pressure, rare traits for a defender of his age.
“He plays with the confidence of someone who’s been doing this for years. His touch, his vision, the way he builds from the back—it’s top level,” Valverde said in a recent interview. Such remarks are a massive boost to Huijsen’s confidence as he continues to adapt to the expectations of playing for one of the biggest clubs in the world.
Huijsen, who joined Real Madrid from Juventus, has been steadily developing his game and seems to be fitting seamlessly into Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical plans. His ability to read the game, play progressive passes, and remain calm under pressing situations makes him a valuable asset for Madrid’s defensive line, especially in an era where ball-playing center-backs are highly valued.
The young defender’s potential has already caught the attention of several clubs across Europe, but Real Madrid appears determined to groom him for a long-term role at the Santiago Bernabéu. With praise coming from experienced players like Valverde, it’s clear Huijsen is not just another academy prospect—he is a player with the quality to break into the first team sooner rather than later.
As the new season approaches, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Huijsen continues to develop. If his current trajectory continues, it won’t be long before he becomes a regular name in Real Madrid’s matchday squads, perhaps even pushing for a starting role in the near future.