Real Madrid is facing mounting concern regarding the fitness of young defender Dean Huijsen. The promising talent sustained a calf injury earlier this month and is still targeting a return in time for the highly anticipated Clasico against Barcelona on October 26. However, uncertainty looms at Valdebebas, as injuries to the soleus muscle are notoriously tricky to navigate.
Since his injury during the match against Villarreal on October 4, Huijsen has been in a race against time. Initially, he completed the full match, but what seemed like mere fatigue turned into a micro-tear in his left calf’s soleus muscle. On paper, the injury appeared minor, but it has sidelined him for at least two weeks. The club estimated his recovery period at 12 to 15 days, hoping he would be fit to face Barcelona. At that time, optimism was high.
However, as reported by AS, the mood has shifted. Huijsen continues to train separately and has yet to rejoin his teammates for collective training sessions. After taking a brief respite, he traveled to Malaga to watch his beloved team play against Deportivo before returning to Madrid to continue his rehabilitation efforts. Within the club’s facilities, he is working closely with physiotherapists on regaining full fitness, but he remains far from match-ready.
Upcoming Matches and Tactical Adjustments
It is now confirmed that Huijsen will miss this Sunday’s match against Getafe. Looking ahead, while there is still a possibility he could make it back in time for the Clasico or perhaps even for next week’s clash with Juventus, nothing is assured. Soleus injuries require careful management; pushing too hard too soon could lead to a setback.
Internally, Real Madrid’s coaching staff has already devised contingency plans should Huijsen be unable to participate. In such a scenario, Asensio is expected to step up alongside Éder Militão in defense. David Alaba sits next in line should further adjustments be necessary. While the option of shifting Carreras into a central role with either Mendy or Fran Garcia on the left side exists, it remains an unlikely scenario.
The Bigger Picture
The stakes are high for both Huijsen and Real Madrid as they navigate this injury crisis. With crucial fixtures approaching, including the clash against their arch-rivals Barcelona and a pivotal Champions League encounter against Juventus, every player’s availability will significantly impact their campaign. Huijsen’s absence could also serve as a critical moment for Asensio and other defenders to prove their worth in high-pressure situations.
As fans eagerly await updates on Huijsen’s recovery, they can only hope that he returns stronger and ready to contribute once again. Will he make it back in time for one of the season’s biggest matches? Only time will tell as Real Madrid prepares for these defining moments ahead.
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