7M - Dean Huijsen reflects on emotional Bernabeu debut as Real Madrid edge closer to La Liga title

Following Real Madrid’s victory over Alaves at the Santiago Bernabeu, young center-back Dean Huijsen shared his emotions regarding his official home debut for the first team. Speaking to the club’s official media channels, the rising defensive star described the experience as a dream come true, emphasizing the profound honor of representing the club on its iconic home turf. This appearance not only contributed to a vital three points for the team as they move closer to the La Liga trophy but also signaled a major step forward in Huijsen’s integration into the senior squad. The young defender noted that standing on the pitch in front of the home fans was a milestone he had worked toward since joining the club's academy, and the warm reception he received would remain a defining memory of his early career.

The defender was quick to express his appreciation for manager Carlo Ancelotti, thanking the coaching staff for their continuous belief in his potential and for providing him the platform to perform at the highest level. Huijsen noted that the transition to the first-team environment has been made smoother by the guidance of his veteran teammates, whose tactical advice and encouragement on the pitch have been invaluable to his rapid development. He highlighted the importance of staying patient and learning from some of the best defenders in the world, stating that he remains fully committed to working hard in every training session to repay the confidence the club has placed in him. For Huijsen, being part of this locker room is an educational experience that goes beyond tactical drills, encompassing the winning mentality required to succeed at a club of this stature.

As the 2025-26 campaign enters its decisive final weeks, Huijsen remains focused on the collective goals of the squad rather than personal accolades. He reinforced the idea that while his debut was a significant personal highlight, the priority remains securing the league championship and continuing the club's tradition of European excellence. The young Dutchman expressed his readiness to step up whenever called upon by the manager during the heavy fixture list, aiming to provide defensive stability during the high-pressure matches that remain. For Huijsen, the applause from the Bernabeu faithful serves as a powerful motivation to continue his growth as he aspires to become a permanent fixture in the Real Madrid backline for years to come.