Real Madrid is set to receive a much-needed boost as Dean Huijsen nears his return from injury, just ahead of a crucial match against Manchester City. The young defender has been sidelined since sustaining a left thigh injury during the draw against Elche, missing three consecutive fixtures: the Champions League clash with Olympiakos and La Liga encounters against Girona and Athletic Bilbao. This absence has compounded the defensive woes for coach Xabi Alonso, who is already grappling with a lengthy injury list.
According to sources close to the player, there is growing optimism surrounding Huijsen’s potential involvement in Sunday’s match. The defender has begun training on the sidelines and reports indicate that he is feeling positive about his recovery. This news comes at a critical juncture for Real Madrid, who have faced a series of injury setbacks recently. Since joining the club in June, Huijsen has already experienced two injuries, including a prior issue in October that kept him out of matches against Juventus and Getafe.
A Tactical Asset for Xabi Alonso
Huijsen’s rapid recovery would be more than just a relief for the squad; it represents his development into a key tactical asset for Real Madrid. Since his arrival, he has provided not only physical presence but also crucial ball-playing abilities that enhance Madrid’s overall fluidity in attack. His composure under pressure and ability to read the game have often seen him act as a stabilizing force during challenging moments on the pitch.
Strategic Considerations Ahead of City Showdown
The coaching staff is acutely aware of Huijsen’s importance to their defensive strategy, particularly with an eye on the upcoming Champions League showdown against Pep Guardiola‘s Manchester City. As they prepare to face one of Europe’s most formidable attacking units, led by Erling Haaland, Alonso will need all his defensive resources operating at peak condition. Huijsen’s exceptional game-reading skills and surprising speed for his size could prove essential in disrupting passing lanes to Haaland.
However, there remains a physical challenge ahead for Huijsen. To effectively counter Haaland’s raw power, he must elevate his aggression levels in duels. This has led to speculation within Alonso’s camp about whether it might be prudent to rest Huijsen during Sunday’s league match against Celta Vigo, potentially sacrificing points in La Liga to ensure he is fully fit for the decisive clash against City.
As Real Madrid navigates this precarious period marked by injuries, the return of Dean Huijsen could prove pivotal not only for their immediate league ambitions but also for their aspirations in Europe. Will he be ready to rise to the occasion and help secure a vital victory against Manchester City?
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