Dean Huijsen has received a warning that his dream transfer to Real Madrid might become his worst nightmare.
The central defender for Bournemouth is a top target for Real Madrid after a remarkable debut season in the Premier League.
The Spanish club is reportedly ready to activate Huijsen`s £50 million release clause, in a contract that extends until 2030.
However, Juan Gutierrez, the coach who first gave the Spanish defender, born in the Netherlands, his chance, believes that joining Real Madrid would be a step backward because of the difficulty he would face in securing playing time.
According to Gutierrez, the most beneficial decision for the 19-year-old would be to remain with Bournemouth for the time being, as interest from other major clubs is expected to grow.
Juan Gutierrez, 45, a former member of Malaga`s coaching staff, witnessed Huijsen`s arrival at the club as a young boy of ten. Juventus signed him six years later in 2021, even beating Real Madrid in the pursuit.
Gutierrez, known as Juanito, was impressed by the young player`s leadership qualities from the start and has observed their development each year since, despite Huijsen`s young age.
However, he believes that this progress could be halted at Real Madrid, as the Champions League winners have historically favored experienced players over potential.
Juanito stated, “Dean is a natural leader, regardless of where he plays. Therefore, I hope that whichever club signs him will play him as a first-team player and not see him as just a prospect for the future. He is ready to contribute immediately.”
“There are very few players with his qualities at his age, which makes me question whether signing for Real Madrid would be the right move.”
“No one can guarantee playing time based on looks alone. If he decides to leave Bournemouth, it should not be to spend time on the bench.”
“At Real Madrid, Eder Militao is 27, and Antonio Rudiger is playing at a very high level even with experience.”
“These two are almost guaranteed starters, and David Alaba, when recovered, would also likely be chosen ahead of him.”
“Carlo Ancelotti is an excellent manager but not particularly known for developing young players. Therefore, Dean would likely be the fourth-choice center-back, which is the reality of the situation.”
“Barcelona takes a different approach and is more willing to integrate academy players. However, at Real Madrid, the club`s established philosophy is the challenge. Dean needs to join a team that has a vision for the future and where he is assured of playing time.”
“Perhaps staying at Bournemouth under Andoni Iraola for another season would be the most beneficial path.”
This approach has served Huijsen well so far. He has earned caps for Spain during the recent Nations League break and is expected to be in Bournemouth`s lineup for the game against West Ham on Saturday.
Comparisons to Ramos and Van Dijk
Juanito is confident that these Spain appearances are just the beginning for Huijsen, whom some compare to Sergio Ramos, but who Gutierrez believes could have a similar impact to Virgil van Dijk at Liverpool.
He added, “Mentally, I can see some similarities to Ramos, but in terms of playing style, they are different. Dean is more disciplined and, especially at this stage of his career, more assured.”
“From the beginning, he was exceptional. He listened carefully to instructions and absorbed them very effectively. He could identify his mistakes and improve on them the very next day.”
“Dean simply does not feel pressure and possesses immense self-confidence.”
“If injuries are not a concern, then any team that signs him will get a bargain because he has the potential to become a dominant defender in world football for many years to come.”
“Wherever he moves, I believe he could have the same transformative effect that Van Dijk has had on Liverpool`s success in recent years. Real Madrid might be the only team where he wouldn`t be able to make such a significant change.”
